Etihad Rail passenger trains are now operating in the UAE, giving residents and visitors another option for travelling between emirates. The operator currently lists Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhaid and Fujairah as connected by passenger services, with further station openings scheduled through late 2026 and early 2027.
For anyone planning their first journey, the main questions are practical: where can you board, how much does a ticket cost, and how do you book? Here is what to know before travelling.
Information checked: October 22, 2026. Fares below are dated starting-price announcements. Check the official booking platform for current prices and availability.
What is Etihad Rail?
Etihad Rail is the UAE’s national railway operator. It provides freight transport for businesses and passenger services for people travelling between connected cities and regions.
Its national freight services have operated since 2023, moving bulk and industrial cargo. Passenger services have been introduced separately. A railway line carrying freight does not automatically mean there is an open passenger station at every location along it.
The passenger fleet announced in June 2026 comprised 13 trains, each accommodating up to 400 passengers. The regular passenger trains have a stated maximum speed of 200 km/h, although journey times depend on the route, stops and timetable.
Is Etihad Rail open to passengers?
Yes. The introductory Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service began on June 30, 2026. Dubai and Al Dhaid subsequently joined the passenger network in September.
Older articles saying passenger services are still awaiting their first launch no longer reflect the current position. However, the wider national railway project should not be confused with having passenger stations open across every emirate.
Which Etihad Rail stations are operating?
| Station or area | Status as of October 22, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | Passenger services operating |
| Dubai | Passenger services operating |
| Al Dhaid | Passenger services operating |
| Fujairah | Passenger services operating |
| Zayed City and Liwa | Scheduled to open November 30, 2026 |
| Remaining Al Dhafra stations | Scheduled to open December 30, 2026 |
| Sharjah Station | Scheduled to open March 30, 2027 |
The future dates are the operator’s published expansion schedule. They do not mean tickets for every planned station are already available.
Abu Dhabi’s main passenger station is in Mohamed bin Zayed City, opposite Dalma Mall. Dubai’s passenger station is known as Al Yalayis. Check the exact station entrance and onward transport arrangements before setting out.
How much do Etihad Rail tickets cost?
There is no single ticket price for every journey. Compare the fare available for your selected route, date and departure rather than assuming an advertised starting price applies throughout the timetable.
| Route | Announced starting fares |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi–Fujairah | Comfort: AED55 Premium: AED120 |
| Dubai–Abu Dhabi | Comfort: AED39 Premium: AED109 |
The Abu Dhabi–Fujairah prices were announced in June 2026. The Dubai–Abu Dhabi prices were reported ahead of the September 30 launch. These are starting fares, not live quotes for a journey today.
Before paying, check the complete total and any optional extras. If you are planning a return trip, compare both legs together so that the available return departure fits your plans.
How to book Etihad Rail tickets
Passengers can book through the official Etihad Rail website or its mobile app. Ticket vending machines at stations are also among the announced sales channels.
- Choose your departure and arrival stations. Use the exact names displayed in the booking system.
- Select your travel date. Check both outward and return availability if needed.
- Compare departures. Look at the arrival time and journey duration.
- Review your class and fare conditions. Check changes, cancellations, refunds and seat-selection rules.
- Enter passenger details carefully. Follow the identification requirements displayed.
- Review the total and save your confirmation. Keep your ticket and boarding instructions accessible.
Avoid planning around an old screenshot of a timetable. Use the service displayed for your intended travel date.
Comfort Class or Premium Class?
Etihad Rail offers Comfort and Premium travel classes. Its passenger information lists reserved seating, Wi-Fi, power at each seat and comfortable legroom. Abu Dhabi’s tourism authority describes Premium as providing wider seats, additional legroom and complimentary refreshments.
The best choice depends on the price difference and what matters to you during the journey. For some passengers, a convenient departure will be more valuable than upgrading the seat.
Travel class and fare conditions are separate considerations. Review the specific ticket rules rather than assuming a Premium ticket automatically provides unrestricted refunds or changes.
How long does the journey take?
The introductory Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service was announced with a journey time of approximately one hour and 45 minutes. For other routes, use the duration shown against the departure you intend to book.
When comparing rail with driving or taking a bus, calculate the entire journey: travel to the station, the arrival and boarding time required by the operator, the train journey itself, and your connection from the destination station.
A station-to-station journey time is different from the time needed to reach your office, hotel or attraction.
What about the 30-minute Abu Dhabi–Dubai train?
The proposed 30-minute connection belongs to a separate high-speed railway project. Etihad Rail describes that project as a dedicated, fully electrified network designed for speeds of up to 350 km/h between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
It should not be confused with the passenger trains currently available to book. For a journey now, follow the current booking timetable rather than using the future project’s 30-minute target.
Luggage, accessibility and station connections
Check Etihad Rail’s passenger terms before travelling with large bags, bicycles, sports equipment or unusual items. Airline luggage rules should not be assumed to apply to a train journey.
Stations and trains are designed to support wheelchair users, including accessible facilities and designated onboard spaces. If you require assistance, confirm the arrangements with the operator before travelling.
Plan local connections separately. Check the cost, operating hours and booking requirements of any shuttle, bus or taxi you intend to use. Do not assume a connecting service is automatically included in the rail ticket.
The official Dubai station announcement describes a pedestrian bridge to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station. If your onward journey involves Dubai public transport, GulfInside’s Nol card balance guide can help you prepare. Check the integrated booking and payment options offered for your specific journey.
Is Etihad Rail suitable for daily commuting?
It is worth comparing when the available departures fit your working hours and both stations are practical for your route.
Before relying on it every day, try the complete journey. Add local transport costs, check the return options and consider what happens if you finish work later than expected.
For a leisure trip, choose your return departure before arranging activities. Leaving some flexibility between the train’s arrival and your first booking will make the day easier to manage.
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists use Etihad Rail?
The passenger service is intended for residents and visitors. Follow the eligibility and identification requirements shown during the official booking process.
Can I travel to Sharjah Station now?
The operator lists Sharjah Station’s opening for March 30, 2027. The operating station at Al Dhaid should not be confused with the future Sharjah city station.
Where should I check current prices and train times?
Use the official Etihad Rail booking website or app. Check your selected departure, ticket conditions and station connections before making the rest of your travel arrangements.
Sources
- Etihad Rail: operating passenger network and expansion schedule
- Etihad Rail: freight operations
- Abu Dhabi Media Office: June 23, 2026 passenger launch announcement
- Etihad Rail: September 28, 2026 Dubai station announcement
- Experience Abu Dhabi: station and passenger information
- Etihad Rail: separate high-speed project
Featured and onboard photos: Etihad Rail, sourced from the operator’s official passenger information. Images illustrate the passenger experience.
