Fujairah to Abu Dhabi in 105 minutes: Etihad Rail launches UAE’s first passenger train journey
Stations, fares, routes and onboard facilities revealed for travellers
ABU DHABI – The UAE entered a new era of public transport on Tuesday as Etihad Rail launched its first passenger rail journey, with the inaugural train travelling from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi.
The historic service departed Fujairah at 5.34am and arrived at Mohamed bin Zayed City station in Abu Dhabi after a journey of around 105 minutes. The launch marks the beginning of passenger operations on the UAE’s national railway network, bringing a new mode of travel between emirates.
The first train reached Abu Dhabi at 7.19am, with passengers, officials and visitors gathering at the station to celebrate the milestone. The journey included stops in Sharjah and Dubai along the route, offering travellers their first experience of crossing the UAE by passenger rail.
The launch follows years of development under the UAE Railway Programme, which was announced as part of the Projects of the 50 initiative in December 2021. Etihad Rail’s passenger services are designed to enhance connectivity between emirates, provide an alternative transport option and support the country’s wider mobility network.
Fujairah to Abu Dhabi
The inaugural Fujairah-Abu Dhabi service offered passengers a first look at the experience onboard Etihad Rail’s trains, which can travel at speeds of up to 200kmph. The journey reduces travel time between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi to about one hour and 45 minutes, compared with around two and a half hours by road.
The Fujairah station, located in Hilal City, was selected for its accessibility and proximity to key areas of the emirate. The station is around 12 minutes from Fujairah International Airport and includes parking facilities, pick-up and drop-off areas, taxi services and connections for other transport options.
Passengers arriving for the first journey were welcomed with Emirati hospitality, including traditional performances, Arabic coffee and refreshments. Many travellers also collected commemorative tickets and captured photographs at dedicated photo areas created to mark the occasion.
The first passenger service also featured a special recognition initiative, with Hamad Mansoor Al Balooshi named as the first passenger in Carriage 1, Seat 1. He was selected through Etihad Rail’s “The Passenger Who Represents Us All” initiative, which invited nominations for individuals who have made meaningful contributions to their communities.
Passenger experience
Inside the train, passengers can choose between Comfort and Premium Class seating. Each carriage includes luggage storage areas, overhead compartments and facilities designed to support a comfortable long-distance journey.
The train service includes onboard refreshments, with passengers able to purchase beverages and light snacks depending on the service. On the inaugural trip, travellers received complimentary breakfast as part of the launch experience.
Etihad Rail has also introduced passenger-focused features across its stations, including real-time timetable displays, customer support desks, accessibility facilities and clearly marked directions. Platforms can be accessed through lifts and escalators, while stations include food and beverage outlets, retail facilities and waiting areas.
Safety measures onboard include CCTV monitoring, restrictions on smoking including e-cigarettes, and guidelines encouraging passengers to remain seated and respect other travellers during the journey.
Passengers are required to carry a valid ID along with their ticket, although digital tickets are accepted. Gates close shortly before departure, and travellers are advised to arrive early to complete boarding procedures.
Etihad Rail network
The Fujairah and Abu Dhabi stations are the first passenger stations to open on the Etihad Rail network. Dubai and Al Dhaid stations are scheduled to open on September 30, 2026, while stations in the Al Dhafra region are planned from December 30, 2026. The passenger network is expected to reach Sharjah station on March 30, 2027.
The completed passenger railway network will connect key locations across the UAE, allowing residents and visitors to travel between emirates through an integrated rail system.
Etihad Rail is also focusing on first-and-last-mile connectivity to make journeys more convenient beyond the train ride. Passengers will be able to access stations through shuttle buses, public transport networks, taxis and e-hailing services.
A shuttle bus service from the Abu Dhabi station will connect passengers to key destinations in the capital, including areas such as Adnoc headquarters on Corniche Road West, Adnec Centre and Reem Mall. The service is bookable through Etihad Rail’s official platforms.
Fares and facilities
The passenger service launched with a 50 per cent introductory discount on fares. Comfort Class tickets start from Dh55, while Premium Class tickets start from Dh120. Travellers can choose from three fare categories: Saver, Value and Flex.
Each train can accommodate up to 400 passengers, with multiple services operating daily in both directions. The introductory operations will gradually expand as more stations become available across the UAE.