His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has inaugurated Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi and witnessed the unveiling of the UAE passenger rail network, which is set to launch on 30 September 2026.
His Highness toured the station's key facilities and amenities and reviewed its information management systems and operational readiness procedures. His Highness was also briefed on the station's advanced infrastructure, future plans to increase capacity, measures to facilitate passenger movement during peak hours, and the smart solutions and customer service offerings designed to deliver the highest standards of operational efficiency and service excellence.
"The passenger train project reflects the UAE's vision for a fully integrated transport network, enhancing inter-emirate connectivity, supporting sustainable growth and opening investment opportunities."
His Highness underscored that the project represents a strategic investment advancing the Projects of the 50 by delivering world-class infrastructure while enhancing comprehensive development and strengthening long-term competitiveness.
"The passenger rail network marks a transformative milestone in developing the UAE's transport ecosystem through advanced technologies. The network's stations and transport integration will enhance connectivity between cities while providing convenient travel options supporting community needs and urban development."
The launch of the passenger rail network marks a new chapter in UAE infrastructure development, establishing integrated urban and economic connectivity linking population centers, economic hubs and tourism destinations.
An introductory operational phase between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will commence on 30 June 2026, with 1 hour and 45 minutes journey time. Dubai and Al Dhaid stations open on 30 September 2026, followed by Al Dhafra on 30 December 2026. The route concludes with Sharjah Train Station opening on 30 March 2027.
As part of the next phase, feasibility studies will evaluate passenger rail network expansion to additional emirates, advancing the UAE's integrated national transport vision.
Fares on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route start at AED55 for Comfort Class and AED120 for Premium Class. The fleet comprises 13 trains, each with capacity for up to 400 passengers. Customers can book through the Etihad Rail mobile application and official website from 23 June 2026.
The passenger rail services launch comes less than five years after the UAE announced its railway programme vision in 2021 as part of the Projects of the 50. Delivering ahead of schedule demonstrates the UAE's exceptional capabilities in executing major infrastructure projects, translating strategic visions into tangible outcomes.
Passenger rail services will be operated by Etihad Rail Passenger Services, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis, one of the world's leading passenger transport operators. The partnership combines international expertise with national capabilities to deliver exceptional service quality and world-class travel experience.
Train stations will offer comprehensive hospitality through cafés, restaurants, retail outlets and international brands, plus onboard dining, providing integrated comfort and convenience meeting citizen, resident, visitor and investor expectations.
The UAE Railway Programme reflects the vision of building an integrated national transport ecosystem serving as a sustainable development driver through three core pillars: freight services, passenger rail services and integrated transport solutions. Etihad Rail develops a seamlessly connected transport ecosystem integrating multiple mobility modes, strengthening competitiveness as a global logistics hub, enhancing supply chain efficiency and improving local-regional market connectivity through sustainable solutions supporting the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy.