Dubai: Etihad Rail has revealed that the first passenger service will depart from Fujairah at 5.34am next Tuesday, making it the first step in the phased launch of the UAE’s long-awaited national passenger rail network.
The inaugural service will travel from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi’s Mohammed Bin Zayed City station in just one hour and 45 minutes, reaching speeds of up to 200 km/h.
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Each train will accommodate up to 400 passengers once the full network is operational.
The operator said passenger services will be rolled out in phases, with Dubai and Al Dhaid joining the network from September 30, followed by Al Dhafra stations on December 30 and Sharjah on March 30, 2027, Emarat Al Youm reported.
Etihad Rail said each station has been designed to provide a seamless travel experience, featuring clear signage, on-site support teams, accessible facilities for disabled people and dedicated parking.
On board, passengers will have access to free Wi-Fi, charging ports at every seat, folding tables, overhead luggage racks, dedicated storage for larger luggage and extra legroom.
Addressing why travelers should choose rail over driving, the company said the service offers a more comfortable, reliable and connected way to travel.
With guaranteed seats, free internet access and a quiet cabin environment, passengers can use the travel time to work, relax or avoid the stress of driving.
“The real value of rail travel lies in making the best use of travel time,” the company said, adding that the service is designed around passenger comfort and connectivity rather than simply moving people between destinations.
Tickets are now available through the Etihad Rail mobile app and the company’s website. Booking requires passengers to select their departure station, date of travel, return journey if required, class of travel and full payment.
Once fully operational, the passenger network will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE through stations serving major urban and economic centres. The network aims to cater to daily commuters, families, business travelers and tourists.
The stations will be located in Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Al Yalayis in Dubai, University City in Sharjah, Fujairah, Al Dhaid, Al Mirfa, Al Sila, Al Ruwais (Al Dhannah), Madinat Zayed, Liwa and Al Faya.
