Etihad Rail Service Explained: Stations, Routes and Travel Times Across the UAE

Abu Dhabi → Dubai: ~57 minutes
Abu Dhabi → Al Ruwais: ~70 minutes
Abu Dhabi → Fujairah: ~105 minutes

Etihad Rail has revealed the full network for its long-awaited passenger rail service, set to begin operations in 2026, marking a significant milestone in the UAE’s transport landscape. The network will consist of 11 stations stretching across the UAE, from Al Sila near the Saudi border to Al Dhaid in Sharjah, and connecting major urban and regional hubs from the western region of Abu Dhabi to Fujairah on the east coast. This project builds on the existing freight rail network, which already spans some 900 km across all seven emirates and supports logistics and industrial connectivity.

Passenger services will feature modern trains capable of speeds up to 200 km/h, significantly reducing travel times, for example, Abu Dhabi to Dubai in about 57 minutes and Abu Dhabi to Fujairah in approximately 105 minutes. Each train will accommodate up to ~400 passengers with amenities such as Wi-Fi, entertainment, charging points, and multiple seating classes. Etihad Rail has also confirmed integration with the nol card system, enabling unified fare payment across UAE public transport. The passenger network is planned to roll out in phases, prioritizing safety and service quality as it transitions from freight-only operations.