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Infrastructure·30 October 2026

Etihad Rail Records 120,000 Ticket Sales in First Month of UAE Passenger Service

Etihad Rail's national passenger network has sold 120,000 tickets within its first 30 days of operation, demonstrating strong public adoption of inter-city rail travel across the UAE.

Etihad Rail has reported significant success in its inaugural month of passenger services, recording 120,000 ticket sales between September 30 and October 30, 2026. This strong start underscores growing public confidence and adoption of the UAE's national rail network as a viable inter-city transport option.

Expanding Connectivity Across the Emirates

The passenger service currently connects four key cities: Abu Dhabi, Dubai (Al Yalayis Station), Al Dhaid (Sharjah), and Fujairah. The network's official launch saw Dubai Al Yalayis and Al Dhaid stations join the existing Abu Dhabi and Fujairah stations, which had commenced operations during an introductory phase.

Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial and Support at Etihad Rail Mobility, highlighted the company's aim to integrate passenger rail into daily life, offering a comfortable, safe, and reliable alternative to road travel.

Enhanced Passenger Experience and Future Plans

Etihad Rail provides various amenities to improve the travel experience:

  • Charging points: For professionals to work or prepare for meetings.
  • Family-friendly environment: Allowing families to travel together without the stress of driving.
  • Convenient and affordable: An additional option for daily commuters between cities.

To ensure smooth travel, Etihad Rail is collaborating with transport partners for onward connections:

  • Dubai Al Yalayis Station: Features a dedicated pedestrian bridge directly connecting to the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, providing access to the Dubai Metro Red Line.
  • Mohamed bin [Zayed City](/areas/discover-zayed-city) Station (Abu Dhabi): Offers shuttle buses to key destinations like ADNOC Headquarters, ADNEC Centre, Reem Mall, and various attractions on Yas Island.
  • Al Dhaid and Fujairah: Additional transport options are available through service providers.

Etihad Rail plans further expansion in the coming months, with new stations expected to open across the Al Dhafra Region, extending the network's reach to more communities and supporting the UAE's broader vision for enhanced mobility.

Frequently asked

Questions, answered

Which cities are currently connected by Etihad Rail's passenger service?
Etihad Rail's passenger service currently connects Abu Dhabi, Dubai (specifically Al Yalayis Station), Al Dhaid in Sharjah, and Fujairah, making inter-emirate travel more accessible.
How do passengers connect from Dubai Al Yalayis Station to the Dubai Metro?
Passengers at Dubai Al Yalayis Station can directly access the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station via a dedicated pedestrian bridge, connecting them to the Dubai Metro Red Line for further city-wide travel.
What facilities are available for professionals travelling on Etihad Rail?
Etihad Rail coaches are equipped with charging points, allowing professionals to work or prepare for meetings comfortably during their journey.
Are there plans to expand the Etihad Rail passenger network?
Yes, Etihad Rail plans to open additional stations in the coming months, including new locations across the Al Dhafra Region, to further extend the network's reach and serve more communities.
Reported by
Google News — Dubai Metro & Rail · Arabian Business — Property
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This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.

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