The first passenger train service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah stations will depart tomorrow at 5:34 a.m. from the emirate of Fujairah, with the journey expected to arrive in Abu Dhabi at 7:45 a.m.

The launch of the passenger rail network represents a new phase in the journey of developing national infrastructure, going beyond the traditional concept of transport to building an integrated urban and economic connectivity network linking population, economic, and tourism centres across the country.

The commencement of passenger train services comes less than five years after the United Arab Emirates announced its vision for developing the National Rail Programme, which included the launch of the passenger train project as part of the 'Projects of the 50' in 2021.

The project's completion ahead of schedule reflects high logistical capabilities in executing major national infrastructure projects at an accelerated pace, translating long-term visions into tangible results on the ground, and creating new opportunities for individuals, institutions, and the business sector across the country.

Since last weekend, Etihad Rail has seen strong demand for passenger train ticket bookings through its dedicated digital application and ticketing website.

Within just two days of reservations opening, 5,000 passengers had booked their tickets, placing the 'Etihad Rail' digital application at the top of the most downloaded free applications in the United Arab Emirates.

This demand reflects widespread public interest in passenger train services ahead of the start of the preliminary operation between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on 30 June 2026, marking a new phase in the UAE's rail transport journey.

In less than five years since the United Arab Emirates announced its vision to launch the passenger train project as part of the 'Projects of the 50', the project has moved from vision to tangible reality.

Passengers are now able to plan, book, and manage their train journeys in advance and seamlessly, ensuring high levels of comfort and flexibility.

Following the launch of services tomorrow, Tuesday (30 June 2026), passenger train routes will expand to include the main Abu Dhabi–Dubai–Al Dhaid–Fujairah corridor from 30 September 2026, followed by the opening of Al Dhafra region stations from 30 December 2026, with the passenger train completing its route with the Sharjah station on 30 March 2027.

To ensure a comfortable travel experience at an appropriate cost, the fleet comprises 13 trains with a capacity of up to 400 passengers per train. Introductory ticket prices on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route start from 55 dirhams in Comfort Class and 120 dirhams in First Class, with multiple ticket categories available offering varying levels of flexibility so that each passenger can choose what best suits their needs.

Passenger train services will be operated by 'Etihad Rail Passenger Services', a joint company between Etihad Rail and Keolis, one of the world's leading passenger transport companies, combining extensive global expertise in operating rail networks with national competencies in transport sector management to create an exceptional operational model that elevates service quality and enhances the traveller experience in accordance with the highest international standards.

Passenger train stations also feature hospitality services, including cafés, restaurants, retail outlets, and international brands, in addition to on-board dining options, to provide a comprehensive travel experience combining comfort and meeting the aspirations of all passengers — citizens, residents, visitors, and investors — to the highest standards of quality and excellence in the transport and logistics sector.

The National Rail Programme reflects the United Arab Emirates' vision of building an integrated national transport system that forms a fundamental pillar of sustainable economic and social development, through three main projects encompassing freight transport, passenger train services, and integrated transport services.

Etihad Rail, in cooperation with its mobility sector partners, continues to develop a transport system based on the integration of various modes of transport, enhancing the country's competitiveness in the logistics and economic fields, improving supply chain efficiency, and connecting local and regional markets through sustainable transport modes, in line with the objectives of the UAE Net Zero 2050 Strategic Initiative.

  • Fleet of 13 trains with a capacity of up to 400 passengers per train
  • 55 dirhams for a Comfort Class ticket and 120 dirhams for First Class
  • Al Dhafra region stations to open from 30 December 2026
  • The train completes its route with the Sharjah station on 30 March 2027