Etihad Rail Prepares for Liwa Station Launch with Unique Falconry Trial
Etihad Rail recently hosted Emirati falconers and their falcons on a trial journey from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, ahead of the Liwa Station passenger service launch on November 30, 2026.
Etihad Rail conducted a special trial journey with Emirati falconers and their falcons on a passenger train from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah. This initiative forms part of operational preparations for the launch of passenger services to and from Liwa Station on November 30, 2026.
The trial aimed to evaluate procedures and requirements for travelling with falcons, including their presence in stations and on board the train, along with safety and security considerations. Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial at Etihad Rail Mobility, stated that the experience reflects the UAE's commitment to preserving national heritage while connecting it with the country's developing mobility ecosystem.
The controlled operational environment allowed Etihad Rail's teams to gain insights into handling falcons during transit. Participating falconers provided specialist equipment and expertise. The Liwa region holds a strong connection to falconry and traditional practices, and the new passenger rail services are expected to enhance access to its cultural landmarks and heritage attractions, connecting it more closely to other UAE cities.
While existing Passenger Charter provisions govern pet transportation, the learnings from this trial will inform the development of services and operational policies to explore suitable solutions for travelling with animals, including falcons, in the future.
Questions, answered
- When is Etihad Rail's Liwa Station scheduled to open for passenger services?
- Liwa Station is scheduled to commence passenger services on **November 30, 2026**, connecting the region to cities across the UAE.
- What was the purpose of the falconry trial on Etihad Rail?
- The trial was designed to assess the procedures, safety, and security requirements for transporting falcons on passenger services, both within stations and onboard the train, as part of operational preparations.
- Which regions were connected during the trial journey?
- The special trial journey with falconers and their falcons took place on a dedicated passenger train from **Abu Dhabi to Fujairah**.
- How will the new Liwa Station benefit the region?
- The arrival of passenger rail services to Liwa will connect the region more closely to other UAE cities, enhancing access to its cultural landmarks, heritage attractions, and community events.
- Does Etihad Rail currently permit pets on passenger services?
- Currently, passengers are required to comply with the provisions of the Passenger Charter governing the transportation of pets, and the recent trial will help inform future policies for travelling with animals, including falcons.
This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.
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