Etihad Rail Launches Passenger Services Linking Dubai and Abu Dhabi

The UAE has marked a major milestone in its transport evolution with the launch of passenger rail services by Etihad Rail, connecting Dubai and Abu Dhabi via a modern intercity network.

The new service, which began operations today, is the country’s first nationwide passenger rail offering and represents a significant leap in connectivity between key urban centres of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah.

The new trains between Dubai and Abu Dhabi are now running regularly, with early journeys completed on schedule and strong demand reported following the opening of ticket bookings.

Travel time between the two emirates has been significantly reduced, with journeys taking just over an hour, providing a faster and more convenient alternative to road transport. The trains operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h and are part of a broader national network designed to link multiple cities across the UAE.

The launch is expected to enhance mobility for both commuters and tourists, while easing highway congestion and supporting the country’s sustainability ambitions. Authorities have positioned the rail service as a key component of long-term infrastructure development, aimed at improving public transport usage and reducing carbon emissions.

Stations are integrated with existing urban transit systems, enabling seamless connections to metro, tram, and bus networks, particularly in Dubai where intermodal links have already been established.

The passenger service forms part of Etihad Rail’s wider vision to build a 900-kilometre national railway network connecting all seven emirates and eventually linking to the wider Gulf region.

With expansion plans already underway, the launch signals the beginning of a new era for rail-based mobility in the UAE.

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