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The Etihad Rail passenger train is one of the most ambitious and transformative transportation projects in the UAE, set to redefine logistics, infrastructure, and travel across the region. As expectations soar, this state-of-the-art railway network is poised to enhance connectivity within the Emirates and beyond.
Here’s everything you need to know about the latest developments of the Etihad Rail passenger service, including newly revealed journey times, luxury travel options, and first passenger stations.
What is Etihad Rail Passenger Train?
The Etihad Rail passenger train is planned to be a comprehensive railway network connecting major cities, industrial zones, and key points of economic activity across the UAE. A project by the Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC), Etihad Rail, came to light in 2009. It is 70% owned by the Abu Dhabi government and 30% owned by the federal UAE government.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, inaugurated the freight line in February 2023, consisting of 38 locomotives and over 1,000 wagons. Initially, the Etihad Rail passenger service will be exclusively available to ADNOC's staff and contractors. The UAE national rail network will eventually be open to passengers from the entire GCC.
Check out the Etihad rail route map for further understanding of the Etihad train route
What’s New?
Etihad Rail operated its first freight journey for ADNOC staff on January 25, 2024, connecting the cities of Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah. Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Managing Director and Group CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), was among the passengers on the maiden trip.
He said, “The Etihad Rail project is more than just a rail network. It will serve as a vital artery for economic growth and infrastructure development while driving decarbonisation for the benefit of the UAE and its people.”
Keep an eye on Dubai updates to get the latest Etihad Rail news.
About the Etihad Rail For Passengers
Ultimately, the Etihad Rail passenger train will connect the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Etihad Rail stations will stretch from Fujairah Port to Ghuwaifat, passing through Mussaffah, Khalifa Port, and Jebel Ali Port. Excitingly, the prospect also includes travel from the Emirates to Oman.
While the commencement date for the UAE's passenger rail service remains unconfirmed, Sakamkam in Fujairah is expected to be the first passenger station.
The Dubai to Oman train, accommodating over 400 passengers, will operate up to 200 km/h. The journey by Etihad rail from Dubai to Abu Dhabi will offer swift travel times of 50 minutes. The master plan consists of first-class, business-class, and economy-class options.
Plans for a luxurious train service are underway following an agreement between the Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale and Etihad Rail. Encompassing 15 opulent carriages, the service is anticipated to traverse the UAE, extending from Fujairah to the Liwa desert in Abu Dhabi.
What to Expect: Passenger Amenities & Travel Classes
The Etihad Rail passenger train promises a world-class travel experience with high-end amenities, comfort, and safety features:
- Spacious seating: Economy, Business, and First-Class options
- Entertainment & infotainment systems
- Charging stations & onboard Wi-Fi
- Food and beverage services
- Advanced air-conditioning system
Additionally, an Orient Express-style luxury train is under development in collaboration with the Italian hospitality brand Arsenale, featuring 15 premium carriages. This high-end service will take passengers on a scenic journey across the UAE, from Fujairah to the Liwa desert in Abu Dhabi.
Latest Updates: Journey Times & High-Speed Train Announcement
Etihad Rail has officially disclosed the travel times for its key routes, promising unparalleled efficiency in UAE’s transportation sector:
- Abu Dhabi to Dubai (High-Speed Train): 30 minutes (New Announcement)
- Abu Dhabi to Dubai (Standard Train): 57 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Fujairah: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Al Ruwais: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Sohar (Oman): 1 hour 40 minutes
- Al Ain to Sohar (Oman): 47 minutes
The newly revealed high-speed train between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is expected to be a game-changer, cutting travel time to just 30 minutes—offering an alternative to road congestion and significantly reducing carbon emissions.
Where Will the First Etihad Rail Passenger Train Stations Be Located?
The first four confirmed Etihad Rail passenger stations will be built in key locations:
- Abu Dhabi
- Dubai
- Sharjah
- Fujairah
These stations will serve as major hubs for the national railway network and will facilitate further expansion across the UAE and eventually into Oman.
Etihad Rail Network Construction Progress
Etihad Rail’s construction is progressing in multiple stages:
- Stage One: Completed in 2016, spanning 264 km from Shah to Al Ruwais, mainly for freight transport.
- Stage Two: Now over 70% complete, covering 605 km, connecting major UAE cities, ports, and economic zones.
- Abu Dhabi-Dubai Passenger Line: Completed in March 2022, extending 256 km, incorporating bridges, tunnels, and eco-friendly drainage systems.
- Total Investment: AED 50 billion ($13.62 billion), expected to serve 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030.
Etihad Rail Ticketing & Payment System
While official ticket prices have yet to be revealed, Dubai’s RTA (Roads & Transport Authority) has been confirmed as the ticketing and payment partner for Etihad Rail. It is expected that Dubai’s nol card will be one of the key payment methods for booking and fare payments.
Etihad Train: Transforming Transportation and Real Estate in the UAE
The Etihad Passenger Train will offer a range of benefits, including being cheaper, faster, safer, and more reliable. The project's contribution to reducing CO2 emissions subtly mirrors the objectives championed in international environmental forums and contributes to the UAE Net Zero 2050 agenda.
The Etihad UAE passenger train project presents an array of opportunities for the real estate sector, from the rise of new business hubs to the appreciation of properties along the rail's path.
This innovation marks the beginning of a transformative journey for the UAE. This ambitious initiative is redefining transportation and reshaping the future of urban development and real estate investment. The project unveils new prospects for sustainable living and economic growth with each milestone.
FAQs about Etihad Rail Passenger Train
The 900 km network of the Etihad Rail project location is set to span the entirety of the United Arab Emirates, stretching from the Saudi Arabian border to the border with the Sultanate of Oman.
The Etihad rail opening date is still not announced. Once it is open to the public, we will also know about the Etihad Rail Abu Dhabi to Dubai ticket price.
According to the Etihad Rail map, the Etihad Railway Dubai stations include Dubai South, DWC Airport, and Dubai Industrial City. The charging stations for Etihad Rail are also strategically located at key hubs such as Ruwais, the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD), Khalifa Port, Dubai Industrial City, Jebel Ali Port, Al Ghail, and Fujairah Port. Each location is a significant hub for local and regional distribution and logistics services, featuring customs warehouses and on-site cargo inspection services.
The Etihad Rail completion date is February 28, 2023.
There isn’t much detailed information regarding Etihad Rail stations in Sharjah revealed by the authorities. Nevertheless, it is known that the railway line in Sharjah covers a distance of over 45 km and constitutes a crucial segment within the final package of the project, spanning a total length of 145 km.
As of now, Etihad Rail has not officially announced the exact launch date for its passenger services. However, significant progress has been made, including the operation of the first passenger service between Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah in January 2024, primarily for ADNOC staff. Additionally, tenders for contracts have been issued, and construction efforts are underway, indicating that the Etihad Rail network is moving closer to welcoming public passengers in the near future.
Yes, Etihad Rail is designed to serve both freight and passenger transportation needs across the UAE. The passenger services will connect 11 cities, stretching from Al Sila to Fujairah, with trains capable of speeds up to 200 km/h. This initiative aims to enhance connectivity within the country, offering a modern and efficient alternative to road travel.
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