Etihad Rail’s Passenger Service Set for 2026 Launch

The project, which aims to connect all seven emirates, will initially operate across 11 cities, including major stops in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. The first station will be located in Sakamkam, at the heart of Fujairah city, with a second terminal near University City in Sharjah. Additional stations are expected as the network expands, including one adjacent to Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai.

Each train will accommodate over 400 passengers and reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, offering travel classes ranging from economy to first. Notably, journey times will be significantly reduced,with routes such as Abu Dhabi to Dubai and Dubai to Fujairah clocking in at just 50 minutes. Annual ridership is projected to hit 36.5 million once fully operational.

Looking ahead, Etihad Rail’s ambitions stretch beyond national borders. Discussions are underway to connect the network with other GCC countries, with the Hafeet Rail line linking the UAE and Oman already in development. As the region moves toward integrated mobility, Etihad Rail is on track to reshape how people travel across the Emirates.

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