His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, inaugurated the passenger rail station in Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi, and witnessed the announcement of the UAE’s passenger railway network, scheduled to launch on September 30, 2026.

During the visit, Sheikh Khaled reviewed the station’s advanced facilities, operational systems, and future expansion plans aimed at increasing capacity and enhancing the passenger experience through smart technologies and modern services.He emphasized that the passenger rail project reflects the UAE’s vision of building an integrated national transportation network that strengthens connectivity between the emirates, supports sustainable economic growth, and creates new opportunities for tourism, investment, and urban development.Sheikh Khaled noted that the project is a strategic investment aligned with the UAE’s “Projects of the 50” initiative, helping develop world-class infrastructure that boosts the country’s long-term competitiveness.Meanwhile, Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, said the passenger rail network represents a major milestone in the development of the UAE’s transportation sector through the adoption of advanced technologies and innovative mobility solutions.

Trial operations begin in June

Passenger services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will begin trial operations on June 30, 2026, with a travel time of just one hour and 45 minutes.Dubai and Al Dhaid stations are scheduled to open on September 30, 2026, followed by Al Dhafra stations on December 30, 2026, while Sharjah station will join the network on March 30, 2027.Future feasibility studies will also explore expanding the passenger rail network to additional regions across the UAE.

Ticket prices and booking options

Ticket prices on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route start from AED 55 for Comfort Class and AED 120 for Premium Class.The fleet consists of 13 trains, each capable of carrying up to 400 passengers. Travelers have been able to book tickets through the Etihad Rail mobile application and official website since June 23, 2026.

A modern travel experience

Passenger rail stations will feature cafés, restaurants, retail outlets, and international brands, in addition to onboard dining services designed to provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience.Operations will be managed by Etihad Rail Passenger Services, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis, combining international expertise with local capabilities to deliver world-class railway services.The project forms part of the UAE National Railway Programme, which aims to establish a sustainable and integrated transport system that supports economic development, strengthens supply chains, and enhances connectivity across the country.