Etihad Rail UAE 2026: Routes, Stations, Tickets & Timetable
Last updated: 8 October 2026. Next update: after the 30 November station openings.
On this page: How to buy tickets – Current Etihad Rail routes and stations – Station guide – Travel times –
Ticket prices and travel classes – Luggage rules – Accessibility – Tourists using Etihad Rail – FAQs
Introduction
For decades, traveling between the various emirates of the UAE was typically done by road. Whether driving yourself, taking a taxi, or using an intercity bus, long-distance travel usually meant spending time on the country’s highways.
This is now beginning to change.
Etihad Rail’s passenger network officially began operations in 2026, offering residents and visitors a new way to travel across different parts of the UAE. Passenger services on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route launched on June 30, 2026. The network expanded to include Dubai and Al Dhaid starting September 30, 2026.
Service expansion is ongoing. The Liwa and Madinat Zayed stations are scheduled to open on November 30, 2026, followed by the remaining stations in Al Dhafra on December 30, 2026, and the Sharjah Station on March 30, 2027.
Consequently, Etihad Rail is more than just a future-oriented infrastructure project; passenger trains are now running, tickets are available for purchase, and the network is gradually expanding.
As the passenger rail system in the UAE is new, various practical questions may arise. Where can you travel right now? Which stations are open? How much do tickets cost? How do you book? What items are allowed on the train? And is the train a good option for tourists?
This guide covers the current passenger network, the ticketing system, travel classes, baggage rules, station information, and the upcoming phases of service expansion.
Latest Update (October 2026)
Etihad Rail passenger services launched on 30 June 2026 between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. On 30 September the network expanded to include Dubai and Al Dhaid (in Sharjah emirate), so four stations now connect: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhaid and Fujairah.
Next scheduled openings (dates may change):
30 November 2026: Madinat Zayed and Liwa
30 December 2026: remaining Al Dhafra stations
30 March 2027: Sharjah Station
Quick Facts About Etihad Rail
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Railway network | National railway of the UAE |
| Operator | Etihad Rail Mobility, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis |
| Network length | Approximately 900 km |
| Passenger train speed | Up to 200 km/h on the national passenger network |
| Freight operations | Operational across the UAE |
| Passenger services | Operational since June 30, 2026 |
| Current passenger network | Abu Dhabi (Mohamed Bin Zayed City), Dubai (Al Yalayis, Jumeirah Golf Estates), Al Dhaid (Sharjah), Fujairah |
| Travel classes | Comfort Class and Premium Class |
| Ticket channels | Website, mobile app and station ticket vending machines |
| Future expansion | Additional stations and destinations across the UAE |
Etihad Rail’s passenger trains operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h. The passenger network is being implemented in phases and is planned to eventually connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE.
What Is Etihad Rail?
Etihad Rail is the developer and operator of the UAE’s National Railway Network. The national railway is designed to support the transport of freight and passengers, connecting communities, economic hubs, ports, and other key destinations across the country.
The freight network was established prior to the introduction of passenger services. Freight trains are now part of the UAE’s broader logistics infrastructure, while the passenger network is being rolled out gradually.
The passenger train offers an additional travel option between the emirates, reducing reliance on private cars, taxis, or intercity buses.
The passenger trains are designed for longer journeys, featuring two travel classes, assigned seating, onboard Wi-Fi, charging facilities, and provisions for luggage.
Why Did the UAE Build a National Railway?
The UAE’s national railway aims to strengthen connections between communities, economic hubs, and destinations across the country.
The national rail network provides an additional mode of transport for people and goods, complementing existing highways, airports, metro systems, buses, and other forms of public transport.
For passengers, the railway offers a new travel option between cities. For freight operators, the national network supports the movement of goods throughout the UAE.
The passenger network is also part of a broader vision for integrated transport and connectivity across the Emirates.
Freight vs Passenger Services
Etihad Rail operates both freight and passenger services.
Freight Service
Freight trains transport goods across the UAE, connecting key logistics and industrial locations. The freight network is a vital component of the country’s broader transport and supply-chain infrastructure.
Passenger Service
Passenger trains are designed for inter-city travel for residents and visitors.
Unlike freight trains, passenger services feature dedicated seating and onboard amenities designed for longer journeys. Current passenger services include Comfort and Premium classes, free Wi-Fi, and power outlets at every seat. The passenger network continues to expand as more stations come into use.
Why Etihad Rail Matters
Etihad Rail offers people another way to travel across the UAE.
Whether it is a resident commuting between emirates for work, a family planning a weekend trip, or a tourist visiting different parts of the country, travelers can now include train travel in their plans.
The biggest difference is that passengers do not have to spend the entire journey driving. They can use the travel time to work, read, relax, or simply enjoy the trip.
The railway is also part of the UAE’s broader move toward an integrated national transport network.
The United Arab Emirates Railway Network Explained
Etihad Rail differs from urban metro systems like the Dubai Metro.
The national railway is primarily designed for long-distance travel between cities and regions, rather than for frequent, short trips within a single city.
The passenger network is being rolled out in phases. The first service on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route launched in June 2026, followed by the opening of stations in Dubai and Al Dhaid in September.
Additional destinations are scheduled to be added to the network throughout the remainder of 2026 and into 2027.
As the planned, phased rollout progresses, the network will provide broader rail connectivity across the country.
Who Should Use Etihad Rail?
Etihad Rail can be beneficial for various types of travelers.
Residents
Residents traveling between the emirates can use the railway as an alternative to driving.
Business Travelers
For business trips between connected destinations, traveling by train allows passengers to work or relax instead of having to focus on the road.
Families
Families can avoid the stresses of a long road trip while traveling together in reserved seats.
Students
Students traveling between the emirates can have another practical transportation option for inter-city travel.
Tourists
Visitors can use the passenger railway to explore more of the UAE without needing to rent a car for every leg of their journey.
Etihad Rail Routes Explained: Where Can You Travel?
The passenger network is no longer limited to the original service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
By October 2026, passenger operations now include Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah, and Al Dhaid. The network continues to expand, with additional stations scheduled to open in late 2026 and throughout 2027.
As Etihad Rail continues to add services and adjust schedules, it is advisable to check the specific routes and departure times available for passengers using the official journey planner before booking.
Abu Dhabi to Fujairah
The Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service is the first passenger route to launch operations.
According to official launch details, the journey between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah takes approximately one hour and 45 minutes. The first scheduled passenger trip departed from Fujairah at 5:34 a.m. and arrived at the Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi at 7:19 a.m.
For travelers heading to the east coast, this route offers an alternative to traveling entirely by road.
Fujairah offers an environment vastly different from that of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, featuring beaches, mountains, historical sites, and coastal attractions.
Abu Dhabi to Dubai
Passenger services between Abu Dhabi and Dubai are now part of the national network following their launch on September 30, 2026.
This serves as a vital connection for residents traveling between the UAE’s two largest cities, as well as for business and leisure travel.
However, it is important not to confuse the current standard passenger service with the separate high-speed rail project in the UAE.
The high-speed project is envisioned as a distinct electric rail service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, featuring a planned travel time of approximately 30 minutes and a top speed of 350 km/h. It is not the same service as the passenger trains currently operating on the national network.
Dubai to Fujairah
Dubai and Fujairah are now connected via an operational passenger network.
This route is particularly important for visitors and residents traveling between Dubai and the east coast. Fujairah offers access to beaches, mountain scenery, diving, and coastal attractions.
Travelers should check the official journey planner for the specific services available on their intended travel date, rather than relying solely on estimated travel times stated elsewhere.
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah and Al Dhaid
The opening of the Dubai and Al Dhaid stations on September 30 expanded the passenger network beyond its initial operations on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route.
Al Dhaid station which is in the Emirate of sharjah, is particularly important for passengers traveling to the central and eastern parts of the UAE.
As more stations open, the number of possible journeys will continue to increase.
Future Passenger Stations
Etihad Rail’s passenger network is expected to expand gradually.
The Madinat Zayed and Liwa stations are scheduled to open on November 30, 2026, followed by the remaining stations in Al Dhafra on December 30, 2026.
Meanwhile, Sharjah Station is set to open on March 30, 2027.
These dates are based on Etihad Rail’s published launch plans and are subject to change depending on operational requirements.
Passenger Stations Across the UAE
Etihad Rail stations are designed to connect with other modes of transport and support passengers before and after their train journeys.
For instance, the Dubai Station is integrated into Dubai’s broader transport network. It is connected to the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station via a dedicated pedestrian bridge, allowing passengers to transfer between Etihad Rail and the Dubai Metro.
The Dubai Station is also part of an integrated ticketing arrangement with Dubai’s Nol system, enabling passengers to use a single QR code for eligible trips on trains, the Metro, the Tram, and buses.
Facilities and transport connections may vary between stations, so passengers should check the relevant station information before traveling.
How Long Does Etihad Rail’s Each Journey Take?
One of the initial attractions of the passenger network is the potential to make longer journeys more predictable compared to road travel.
However, it is important not to present estimated travel times as fixed schedules.
Official launch information confirms that the initial journey from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
For other routes, travel times may vary depending on the service, stops, and timetable. The most reliable way to check current travel times is to use the official Etihad Rail journey planner when planning your trip.
Current Route Information
| Route | Current Information |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi – Fujairah | Approx. 1 hour 51 minutes |
| Abu Dhabi – Dubai | Approx. 1 hour and 4 minutes |
| Dubai – Fujairah | Approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes |
| Abu Dhabi – Al Dhaid | Approx. 1 hour and 24 minutes |
| Al Dhaid – Fujairah | Approx. 25 minutes |
As of 8th October 2026
Etihad Rail timetable (Dubai–Abu Dhabi)
How often do trains run between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
At launch, the service ran five daily trains in each direction between Al Yalayis Station in Dubai and Mohamed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi. That is 10 services a day in total. gulfnews
Typical weekday departures (as of October 2026)
| Dubai → Abu Dhabi | Abu Dhabi → Dubai |
|---|---|
| 6:14 AM | 6:43 AM |
| 7:14 AM | 7:43 AM |
| 1:14 PM | 12:43 PM |
| 5:14 PM | 4:43 PM |
| 6:14 PM | 5:43 PM |
Each Dubai–Abu Dhabi trip takes 64 minutes. Published timetables vary slightly between outlets and between weekdays and weekends, and departures are concentrated in the morning and early evening. constructionreviewonline
It is recommended to check the Etihad Rails official timetable before deciding on a travel date.
Getting to and from the stations
| Station | Where it is | Onward travel | Google Map Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai: Al Yalayis | Jumeirah Golf Estates | Pedestrian bridge to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro; QR ticketing is integrated with Nol for eligible trips | |
| Abu Dhabi: Mohamed Bin Zayed City | Away from the Corniche and the islands | Etihad Rail runs shuttles to Reem Mall on Al Reem Island, ADNEC and ADNOC Headquarters | |
| Al Dhaid | Sharjah emirate | Check onward options on the official site | |
| Fujairah | East Coast | Check onward options on the official site |
Plan your final stop before booking. Stations are often 20 to 40 minutes away from your actual destination.
Train vs car vs bus (Abu Dhabi ↔ Dubai)
| Etihad Rail | Car | Intercity bus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journey time | 64 minutes station to station | Desired Location Peak hours: 100-120 minutes Off-peak hours: 90 minutes | Bus station to Bus station Peak hours: Approx. 160+ minutes Off-peak hours: 140 minutes |
| Cost | From AED 39 Comfort | Fuel: From AED 100 Salik (Tolls): From AED 25 | AED 25 |
| Comfort | Assigned seat, WIFI, charging | Flexible but you drive | Basic |
| Best for | Station-to-station trips, working on the way | Door-to-door, several stops | Lowest cost |
| Weak point | Limited departures, station location | Traffic and tolls | slower |
As of 8th October 2026
Commuter Math:
22 working days × 2 journeys × AED 39 = about AED 1,716 a month, Comfort fare.
Fares vary by date, time and fare type, so say this is an illustration.
How to Book Etihad Rail Tickets
Booking a trip on Etihad Rail is quite easy and simple.
Passengers can purchase tickets through the official Etihad Rail website, the mobile app, and ticket vending machines at the stations.
Online Booking
The official Etihad Rail website allows passengers to select their trip, date, travel class, and available fares.
The website also provides access to current schedules and available trips.
Mobile App
The official Etihad Rail app allows passengers to book and manage trips and access their digital tickets.
Etihad Rail states that the app offers a fast booking process and access to a wider range of fares than station ticket vending machines.
Get Etihad Rail App on Google Play or download at App Store.
At the Station
Ticket vending machines are available at the stations.
Passengers may also contact Etihad Rail through their customer service channels if they need assistance. The designated contact number is 800 RAIL (800 7245).
Tickets can be purchased up to five minutes before the scheduled departure, subject to availability.
How Much Do Etihad Rail Tickets Cost?
Etihad Rail fares depend on the route, class and fare type (Saver, Value or Flex). At the 30 September launch, Dubai–Abu Dhabi fares started at AED 39 in Comfort and AED 109 in Premium, and varied by date and time of travel.
Route level starting fare table.
| Route | Comfort from | Premium from |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi – Dubai | From AED 39 | From AED 109 |
| Dubai – Fujairah | From AED 29 | From AED 89 |
| Abu Dhabi – Fujairah | From AED 55 | From AED 120 |
| Abu Dhbai – Al Dhaid | From AED 59 | From AED 149 |
As of 8th October 2026
Check current schedule, availability and rates at Etihad Rail Official Booking Page.
Looking for infant, child, family and senior fair discounts? Check Etihad Rail Discounts Offer Page.
Choosing Your Travel Class
Passengers can generally choose between two travel classes.
1. Comfort Class
Comfort Class is the standard option for most passengers.
It features comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi, and a universal power socket as well as a USB charging point at every seat.
2. Premium Class
Premium Class offers wider seats and extra legroom, along with reclining seats and padded headrests.
Premium Class also includes free Wi-Fi and power and USB charging facilities at every seat.
Complimentary drinks are provided, and additional food and beverage options are available for purchase.
What To Expect On Your First Etihad Rail Ride
If you have traveled by train elsewhere, most of the process will be familiar to you.
Step 1: Get Your Ticket
Book via the official Etihad Rail website or app, or use a ticket vending machine at the station.
Your ticket is issued in your name, so you must carry valid identification that matches the details on the ticket.
Step 2: Get to the Station Ahead of Time
Allow enough time for parking, locating the station entrance, and completing ticket or security checks.
Do not treat the train like a city Metro, where you can arrive just seconds before departure. Etihad Rail requires passengers to have a valid ticket before boarding.
Step 3: Complete Boarding Checks
Your ticket may be checked at the station, during the journey, and upon exiting at the destination platform. Passengers may also be asked to present identification.
Step 4: Find Your Seat
Seats are automatically assigned 24 hours before departure. Passengers with Value and Flex fares can select seats at no extra cost, while passengers with Saver fares can change seats for a small fee, subject to applicable conditions.
Inside The Train
Etihad Rail’s passenger trains are designed for intercity travel.
Current onboard features include:
- Free Wi-Fi
- Universal power sockets
- USB charging points at every seat
- Real-time bilingual information screens
- Assigned seating
- Onboard trolley service
- Train Masters to assist passengers
- Air-conditioned passenger coaches
Etihad Rail states that the information screens display route details, upcoming stops, and estimated arrival times in both Arabic and English.
Food and non-alcoholic beverages are available through the onboard service. Alcohol is not served on the train.
Can You Bring Luggage?
Yes.
Each passenger may carry up to two pieces of luggage free of charge, in accordance with Etihad Rail’s baggage policy.
The allowance includes the following:
- One personal item, such as a handbag or laptop bag, that must fit under the seat.
- One carry-on bag with dimensions not exceeding 55 × 40 × 23 cm.
- Additional luggage may be requested in advance.
- One foldable stroller per child is permitted free of charge.
- There is no separate baggage allowance for infants.
Passengers are responsible for carrying, lifting, and placing their own luggage into the designated storage areas without assistance.
Bicycles, e-scooters, and e-bikes are not permitted on Etihad Rail services under current passenger regulations.
Can You Bring A Pet?
Etihad Rail’s current Passenger Charter permits pets, including dogs and falcons, provided they are transported in an approved carrier measuring no more than 55 × 40 × 23 cm.
The pet carrier replaces the passenger’s standard carry-on luggage allowance, and one pet carrier is permitted per passenger.
Certified assistance dogs are handled separately and must be booked in advance through the Contact Centre.
Passengers should always check the current Passenger Charter before traveling, as these policies are subject to change.
Is Etihad Rail Accessible?
Accessibility is part of the passenger service design.
Etihad Rail provides spaces for wheelchair seating, and wheelchair users can reserve these spaces when booking. Mobility aids are subject to the operator’s conditions, including requirements regarding wheelchair type and battery configuration.
Passengers requiring assistance should make the necessary arrangements prior to travel and check the latest accessibility information from Etihad Rail.
Can Tourists Use Etihad Rail?
Absolutely.
Etihad Rail offers passenger services for both UAE visitors and residents.
For tourists, the railway provides an alternative way to travel between different parts of the country without needing to rent a car for every trip.
For instance, a visitor could combine a stay in Dubai with a train trip to Abu Dhabi or travel to Fujairah to experience the east coast.
Tourists should note that Etihad Rail is an intercity service, so train stations are not necessarily located right next to every attraction. It is important to plan the final leg of the journey using taxis, the Metro, buses, rental cars, or other available modes of transport.
The Dubai Station is particularly convenient in this regard, as it connects to the Dubai Metro network via the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station.
Visitors should also carry the identification document associated with their booking, as Etihad Rail may verify passenger identities during the journey.
Why Residents Will Appreciate the Railway
For UAE residents, the passenger rail system offers value that goes beyond tourism.
Someone traveling to a meeting in another emirate can use the travel time to work instead of driving.
Families can travel together without the need to focus on a long highway drive.
Students and other regular inter-city commuters gain an additional transportation option.
The rail system also allows for trip planning based on a schedule, rather than relying solely on road conditions.
As the network expands, the number of destinations accessible by train will also increase.
Why Tourists Should Add Etihad Rail to Their Itinerary
The UAE offers much more diversity than Dubai’s skyline suggests.
Visitors can experience major cities, cultural attractions, beaches, mountains, and desert landscapes across different parts of the country.
The passenger rail network makes it easy to combine multiple destinations into a single itinerary.
However, tourists should plan the entire trip rather than focusing solely on the train ride itself. Check the station’s location, how to get there, and how to travel from the destination station to your hotel or attraction.
That “last-mile” planning can make the difference between a smooth rail journey and a frustrating one.
Tips for a Smooth Etihad Rail Journey
Book Early During Busy Periods
Weekends, public holidays, and school breaks can be busy. Booking in advance gives you a better selection of departure times, fares, and seats.
Arrive Early
Allow enough time to reach the station, park if necessary, locate the correct entrance, and complete boarding checks.
Keep Your Ticket Accessible
Digital tickets can be accessed via the Etihad Rail app, a mobile browser, or the email confirmation. Printed tickets can also be obtained from station ticket vending machines.
Carry Valid Identification
Tickets are issued in the passenger’s name, and identification may be checked during the journey.
Check Your Luggage Before Departing
Ensure your bags comply with current allowances, especially if you are traveling with children, pets, or large items.
Plan Your Journey Beyond the Station
Your train ride is just one part of the trip. Plan how you will get to the station and how you will proceed to your final destination.
The Future of Etihad Rail
The passenger network is currently in its initial stages.
With the expansion in September 2026, Dubai and Al Dhaid were included in passenger operations. Future scheduled phases will add Madinat Zayed and Liwa, other stations in Al Dhafra, and subsequently, Sharjah.
Etihad Rail’s Passenger Charter states that once the planned network is complete, it will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Al Sila’, Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Liwa, Al Faya, and Al Dhaid.
There is also a separate high-speed rail project currently under development between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This service is planned to operate on a dedicated, electrified network, with a target travel time of approximately 30 minutes and speeds reaching 350 km/h.
It is important to distinguish that project from the standard Etihad Rail passenger service currently operating across the national network.
Frequently Asked Questions About Etihad Rail
Final Takeaway
Etihad Rail has transitioned from a major infrastructure project into an operational passenger service.
The first passenger trains began running between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah in June 2026. By September, the network had expanded to include Dubai and Al Dhaid, with additional stations scheduled to open in Al Dhafra and Sharjah.
For residents, the railway provides another option for travel between the emirates. For tourists, it offers a new way to explore more of the UAE without relying entirely on rental cars or organized tours.
However, the network is constantly evolving. Routes, timetables, fares, and available stations will continue to change as additional phases come online.
Therefore, the best approach is to use this guide to understand how the system works, then check the official Etihad Rail booking platform for the latest information on fares, schedules, and routes before traveling.
As the national passenger network continues to expand, the railway is becoming an increasingly practical part of daily travel in the UAE.
