UAE: Etihad Rail trials passenger train from Al Ghuwaifat on Saudi border to Abu Dhabi
Alternative mobility channel supports emergency response planning
DUBAI – The UAE’s national railway operator, Etihad Rail, has conducted a passenger train trial on the route connecting Al Ghuwaifat station on the Saudi border with Al Faya station in Abu Dhabi.
The operation was carried out in coordination with the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi as part of broader efforts to ensure continuity of vital services.
The move forms part of a proactive framework designed to provide safe and reliable transport alternatives, guided by continuous risk assessments and evolving operational requirements. Officials said the trial underscores the readiness of national infrastructure to respond effectively under various scenarios.
Al Ghuwaifat-Al Faya corridor
The Al Ghuwaifat-Al Faya corridor holds strategic importance, strengthening the geographical connection between the UAE and Saudi Arabia while facilitating access to key ports and border crossings. The route enhances mobility for both nationals and residents and provides authorities with an additional channel that can be activated in line with approved response plans.
.@Etihad_Rail, in coordination with @Adcmc_ae, is operating a passenger train as part of trial runs on the route connecting Al Ghuwaifat station and Al Faya station in Abu Dhabi. pic.twitter.com/DFYWs8G4FN
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) March 3, 2026
By integrating rail transport into emergency preparedness strategies, authorities aim to ensure smooth movement to and from critical gateways, reinforcing logistical security and supporting multi-scenario risk management frameworks. The operation was described as part of a coordinated package of measures aligning institutional roles and strengthening operational integration across vital sectors.
Integrated response
Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi, said the readiness of transport systems is central to the emirate’s comprehensive response ecosystem. He emphasised that the development and preparedness of transport options represent a key pillar of stability and service continuity.
Al Nuaimi noted that developments are managed through clear governance frameworks and coordinated mechanisms spanning essential sectors, enabling rapid adaptation and efficient deployment of resources. He added that flexibility within the transport sector directly supports societal stability, given its link to essential services.
According to the centre, monitoring and analysis of indicators continue around the clock to reinforce preparedness levels and sustain public confidence in the effectiveness of Abu Dhabi’s response systems.
Network readiness
From an infrastructure perspective, the passenger service trial reflects the operational maturity of the UAE’s railway network and its integration into contingency planning.
Eng Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said the operation of passenger services between Al Ghuwaifat and Al Faya demonstrates the readiness and flexibility of the national railway network, designed to ensure continuity of vital services under all circumstances. He said the initiative aligns with directives to strengthen the national transport ecosystem and enhance its strategic role in supporting society, under the guidance of Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail.
Al Shehhi added that the company is supporting joint response efforts led by relevant authorities by providing safe, reliable and well-organised transport solutions. He said teams continue to work closely with government partners to maintain sustainable operations, improve traffic flow and safeguard the readiness of the transport ecosystem.
The activation of the route illustrates an institutional approach grounded in advance planning and timely operational decisions. Authorities indicated that such measures go beyond preventive coordination, translating risk assessments into practical transport solutions that enhance service efficiency and infrastructure resilience.