The UAE’s long awaited Etihad Rail passenger service begins its first phase on June 30, offering commuters a faster alternative to driving and public buses while significantly improving connectivity between major emirates.
The introductory service will connect Abu Dhabi and Fujairah in just 1 hour and 45 minutes, replacing a public transport journey that currently takes more than five hours with multiple bus transfers. The phased rollout marks a major milestone in the UAE’s national rail project, with Dubai passenger services scheduled to begin on September 30.
The new railway aims to provide predictable travel times for commuters, students, business travelers and tourists while reducing dependence on private vehicles.
Biggest time savings on Abu Dhabi to Fujairah route
Among all planned routes, Abu Dhabi to Fujairah offers the biggest improvement.
The train will complete the trip in 1 hour and 45 minutes. Drivers usually need between 2 hours and 20 minutes and 2 hours and 32 minutes, depending on traffic. Bus passengers currently spend 5 hours and 14 minutes to 5 hours and 45 minutes because no direct service exists.
The new rail link creates the first direct mass transit connection between the UAE capital and the east coast. It will make travel easier for workers, students, families and visitors who do not own a car.
أجمل الرحلات هي التي نشاركها مع من نحب.
من ستصطحب معك في أول رحلة على متن قطارات الاتحاد؟ pic.twitter.com/VCjYM7CfJ1— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) June 28, 2026
The network will expand further on September 30. At that stage, passengers will travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 57 minutes, compared with 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes by car and up to two hours by bus. The fixed rail timetable will also eliminate delays caused by traffic congestion, accidents and parking.
Another key route will connect Dubai and Fujairah in 69 minutes. The same journey usually takes more than 90 minutes by car and around 2 hours and 15 minutes by bus, with travel times increasing on busy days.
Journey planner to simplify door to door travel
Etihad Rail said passengers will be able to plan complete journeys through its mobile application and website.
The Journey Planner will display options including taxis, e hailing services, buses, shuttle buses, metro connections and walking routes, depending on each station.
A Dh10 shuttle bus will connect the Mohamed bin Zayed City station with major destinations across Abu Dhabi.
Read More: New UAE Train Will Reach Abu Dhabi in Just 1 Hour 45 Minutes
Etihad Rail has also signed a memorandum of understanding with Yango Group to strengthen first and last mile connectivity. The partnership will improve pick up and drop off services around stations and help manage traffic during busy periods. In a later phase, passengers will be able to book both train tickets and connecting rides through one application.
National network expands in phases
The passenger rail network forms part of one of the UAE’s largest transport infrastructure projects. Authorities say it will eventually connect 11 cities and regions across the country with trains operating at speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour.
The first passenger service launches between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on June 30. Dubai and Al Dhaid stations will open on September 30, followed by Al Dhafra on December 30. Sharjah’s station will complete the initial network on March 30, 2027. Officials say the project will strengthen mobility, support tourism, reduce road congestion and create a more integrated transport system for residents and visitors alike.
