The United Arab Emirates has entered a new era of national connectivity with the official launch of Etihad Rail's passenger services. Following an inauguration ceremony at the Dubai Station, regular train operations commenced on September 30, 2026, linking the major emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah.
Inauguration and Initial Operations
The Dubai Station was formally inaugurated on September 28, 2026, in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail. Prior to the public launch, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan journeyed by Etihad Rail from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, reviewing the railway's advanced operations and passenger amenities.
The new network aims to significantly enhance mobility across the country, improving access to key economic centers and strengthening inter-emirate connectivity. Passenger operations are jointly managed by Etihad Rail Mobility, a venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis.
Fares, Timings, and Booking
Passenger fares for the new Etihad Rail service begin at AED 39 for Comfort Class, with Premium Class tickets available from AED 109. Travelers can conveniently book their tickets through the Etihad Rail mobile application, its official website, or via ticket vending machines located at the various stations.
Initial schedules indicate that the Dubai-Abu Dhabi route will offer multiple daily connections, with 10 services planned. Early morning departures from Dubai include services at 6:14 AM and 7:14 AM, followed by an afternoon service at 1:14 PM.
Seamless Integration with Dubai's Public Transport
A key feature of the new Etihad Rail system is its seamless integration with Dubai’s extensive public transport network. The Etihad Rail station at Al Yalayis is connected to the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station through a dedicated 400-meter pedestrian bridge. This allows passengers to directly transfer to Dubai Metro's Red Line, facilitating onward journeys within the city.
To further enhance convenience, passengers have the option to add a Nol One-Day Pass to their Etihad Rail booking. Priced at AED 22, this pass provides unlimited eligible journeys on Dubai Metro, Tram, and buses using a single QR code. A Gold Nol One-Day Pass is also available for AED 42, offering access to premium services.