When will the initial passenger rail service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah commence?

The initial operational phase connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah is scheduled to begin on **June 30, 2026**. Ticket bookings for this route will open one week prior, on June 23, 2026.

What are the estimated travel times and initial fares for the Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route?

The travel time between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will be approximately **one hour and 45 minutes**. Fares start at **AED 55** for Comfort Class and **AED 120** for Premium Class.

Which major stations are scheduled to open after the initial Abu Dhabi-Fujairah service?

Following the initial launch, Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station will open on **September 30, 2026**. Stations in Al Dhafra will open on December 30, 2026, and Sharjah Train Station on March 30, 2027.

What is the capacity of the new passenger train fleet?

The passenger rail fleet comprises **13 trains**, with each train having the capacity to transport up to **400 passengers** per journey.

Who is responsible for operating the new passenger rail services?

The passenger services will be operated by **Etihad Rail Passenger Services**, which is a joint venture formed between Etihad Rail and Keolis, a leading international passenger transport operator.

All news

Infrastructure·14 August 2026

UAE National Passenger Rail Network Unveiled, Launching Abu Dhabi to Fujairah Service

The UAE has officially unveiled its national passenger rail network, with services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah set to commence on June 30, 2026, marking a significant milestone in regional connectivity.

The United Arab Emirates has officially unveiled its national passenger rail network, a major infrastructure development aimed at enhancing inter-emirate connectivity and fostering sustainable growth across the nation. The network's full launch is scheduled for September 30, 2026, with an initial operational phase connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah beginning on June 30, 2026.

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, inaugurated the Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station, highlighting the project's role in advancing the UAE's integrated transport vision and strengthening its long-term competitiveness.

Phased Rollout and Connectivity

The initial Abu Dhabi to Fujairah route will reduce travel time to just one hour and 45 minutes. Following this, the network will see a phased opening of additional stations:

September 30, 2026: Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station
December 30, 2026: Stations in Al Dhafra
March 30, 2027: Sharjah Train Station, completing the current route

Feasibility studies are underway to explore expanding the network to further emirates, aligning with the UAE's strategic vision for a fully integrated national transport system.

Fares and Services

Ticket bookings for the Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route will open on June 23, 2026, available via the Etihad Rail mobile application and official website. Fares will start at AED 55 for Comfort Class and AED 120 for Premium Class. The passenger fleet consists of 13 trains, each capable of carrying up to 400 passengers.

Etihad Rail Passenger Services, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis, a global transport operator, will manage the services. Stations are designed to offer a comprehensive travel experience, featuring cafés, restaurants, retail outlets, and international brands, complemented by onboard dining options.

This project, part of the 'Projects of the 50' announced in 2021, demonstrates the UAE's capability to deliver major national infrastructure ahead of schedule, translating long-term strategic visions into tangible benefits for residents, visitors, and investors.

Frequently asked

Questions, answered

When will the initial passenger rail service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah commence?: The initial operational phase connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah is scheduled to begin on **June 30, 2026**. Ticket bookings for this route will open one week prior, on June 23, 2026.
What are the estimated travel times and initial fares for the Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route?: The travel time between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will be approximately **one hour and 45 minutes**. Fares start at **AED 55** for Comfort Class and **AED 120** for Premium Class.
Which major stations are scheduled to open after the initial Abu Dhabi-Fujairah service?: Following the initial launch, Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station will open on **September 30, 2026**. Stations in Al Dhafra will open on December 30, 2026, and Sharjah Train Station on March 30, 2027.
What is the capacity of the new passenger train fleet?: The passenger rail fleet comprises **13 trains**, with each train having the capacity to transport up to **400 passengers** per journey.
Who is responsible for operating the new passenger rail services?: The passenger services will be operated by **Etihad Rail Passenger Services**, which is a joint venture formed between Etihad Rail and Keolis, a leading international passenger transport operator.

Reported by

Google News — Dubai Metro & Rail

View original coverage

This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.

Echoes, in your inbox

One thoughtful email a month. Market insight, new launches, no spam.