Etihad Rail confirms 2026 launch for UAE passenger service

Etihad Rail has officially confirmed that its long-awaited passenger train service will commence operations in 2026, marking a major milestone in the UAE’s national railway project.

The announcement was made via a post on X and later confirmed by Etihad Rail’s media relations team. The service, which has been under development since plans were first revealed in 2021, is set to transform intercity travel across the Emirates.

The confirmation followed a May 9 meeting between Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region and an Etihad Rail delegation, where project updates and future plans were reviewed.

Initial passenger stations are planned in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. The Fujairah station will be located in Sakamkam, while the Sharjah station will be near the airport and University City. Although exact locations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai remain undisclosed, it is believed the Dubai station will be within the Jumeirah Golf Estates development, as announced by Wasl.

Trains will operate at speeds up to 200kph and accommodate around 400 passengers. Travel time from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is expected to be 57 minutes, while the trip to Fujairah will take approximately 105 minutes. All stations will integrate with existing public transport networks.

Additionally, Etihad Rail has proposed a separate high-speed electrified line between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, construction has not yet begun and details regarding its integration with the main network remain pending.