Etihad Rail‘s passenger railway network will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE through stations stretching from Abu Dhabi’s Western Region to Fujairah on the east coast.
The network, which is due to begin operating in 2026, forms part of the UAE’s first integrated national passenger rail system and is expected to link key residential, commercial and transport hubs across the country.
Stations are planned in:
- Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi
- Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai
- University City, Sharjah
- Al Hilal, Fujairah
- Al Sila’
- Al Dhannah
- Al Mirfa
- Madinat Zayed
- Mezaira’a
- Al Faya
- Al Dhaid
The first phase of the network will connect the emirates through stations located in areas selected for their proximity to major population centres and transport links.
Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy Chief Executive of Etihad Rail Mobility, said preparations to launch the passenger network in 2026 reflect the UAE’s ambition to build an integrated national transport system.
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“Our preparations to launch passenger services across the national railway network in 2026 reflect the vision of our wise leadership to build an integrated transport ecosystem that supports the UAE’s economic and social fabric,” AlSuwaidi said.
She said the railway would strengthen connectivity between the emirates, support domestic tourism and build on the success of the national freight network, which has been operating since 2023.
The first phase of the passenger network will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE.
Mohammed Alshehii, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said the stations had been selected in strategic locations to maximise accessibility and reduce journey times.
“In its first phase the network will connect 11 cities and areas that have been carefully selected within key locations such as Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah and the Al Hilal area in Fujairah,” Alshehii said.
He said the trains are designed to provide a congestion-free alternative to road travel and will be integrated with other transport systems.
Each train will accommodate up to 400 passengers and include Wi-Fi, individual power outlets and modern seating. Ten of the 13 trains planned for the network have already arrived in the UAE and have completed testing and certification.
The project has involved more than 7,000 workers and experts and 24.5 million working hours over three years, according to Etihad Rail.
The passenger railway network is expected to reduce road congestion, support efforts to cut emissions and strengthen social and economic links between the emirates.