Passenger train services in the UAE will begin on June 30 with the launch of the first route connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, cutting travel time between the two emirates to one hour and 45 minutes.
The announcement was made as Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, inaugurated the Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi.
The service marks the first phase of the UAE's passenger rail network, with additional stations scheduled to open over the coming months.
Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station are set to enter service on September 30, followed by the opening of Al Dhafra stations on December 30. The network's first phase will be completed with the opening of Sharjah Train Station on March 30, 2027.
Passengers travelling between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will pay fares starting from Dh55 for Comfort Class and Dh120 for Premium Class.
Ticket sales will begin on June 23 through the Etihad Rail website and mobile application.
The passenger fleet consists of 13 trains, each capable of carrying up to 400 passengers.
During his visit, Sheikh Khaled reviewed the station's operational readiness, passenger facilities, information management systems and future plans to expand capacity.
He said the passenger rail project reflects the UAE's vision of creating an integrated transport network linking emirates, supporting economic growth and improving mobility.
Sheikh Khaled added that the project would support investment, tourism and urban development while contributing to the objectives of the Projects of the 50 initiative.
Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, described the network as a major development in the country's transport sector, noting that the system combines modern technology with safe and efficient travel services. He said the integration of rail stations with other transport modes would improve connectivity between cities and key destinations while offering passengers greater travel flexibility.
Officials said the passenger network is expected to strengthen links between population centres, economic hubs and tourism destinations across the UAE, creating new opportunities for growth and mobility.