Etihad Rail has revealed the full list of 11 stations that will form its national passenger rail network, which is scheduled to begin operations later this year. The announcement marks a major milestone in the UAE’s efforts to enhance intercity connectivity and develop a modern, sustainable transport system.
Seven newly announced stations will be located in Al Sila, Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Mezairaa and Al Faya in Abu Dhabi, along with Al Dhaid in Sharjah. In addition, the exact locations of four previously announced stations have been confirmed at Mohamed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah and the Al Hilal area of Fujairah.
Etihad Rail stated that ten out of the 13 passenger trains have already arrived in the UAE and have successfully completed safety testing and certification to international standards. The stations and services will become operational in phases during the year, though an official launch date has not yet been announced.
The passenger trains are designed to carry up to 400 people each and will offer modern amenities including comfortable seating, Wi-Fi access, power outlets at every seat and contemporary interiors. The service aims to provide a reliable, congestion-free alternative to road travel, with forecast journey times of 57 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and 105 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
Officials highlighted that the rail network will play a central role in the UAE’s national transport ecosystem by supporting long-term development, boosting domestic tourism, reducing traffic congestion and improving overall quality of life. The first phase of the network will connect 11 key cities and areas across the country, integrating seamlessly with existing transport systems.
Etihad Rail, established in 2009, has been operating a national freight rail service since 2023. The passenger network builds on this experience and complements future plans, including a high-speed rail link between Abu Dhabi and Dubai that aims to reduce travel time between the two emirates to around 30 minutes.