Intercity travel in the United Arab Emirates has so far been characterized by long drives, heavy traffic, and short flights. However, starting in 2026, Etihad Rail will transport passengers across the country for the first time, offering a completely different perspective on domestic travel in the UAE. This national rail network represents a new way for residents of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and other emirates to commute between cities.

Etihad Rail spans 900 kilometers from Al Sila in the west of Abu Dhabi to Fujairah on the eastern coast, connecting 11 cities and regions across all seven emirates. This network includes Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Al Dhayd, and Ras Al Khaimah. Freight operations on this line began in 2016, and by 2023, the complete national network was finished. Now, passenger services are the final domestic component of this project, which is expected to connect to the rail networks of GCC countries in the future.

Travel times on Etihad Rail will be significantly reduced. The Abu Dhabi-Dubai route will take only 57 minutes, Abu Dhabi-Al Ruwais 70 minutes, and Abu Dhabi-Fujairah 105 minutes. Trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour, reducing travel time by nearly one-third compared to driving. Additionally, a separate high-speed train project is under development that will connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai in about 30 minutes at a speed of 350 kilometers per hour.

Trains will be available in two models: Chinese CRC with a capacity of 365 passengers and Spanish CAF with a capacity of 369 passengers, covering all three classes: economy, family, and first class. Major passenger stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah are under construction and will connect to the metro, bus, and ride-sharing networks. It is projected that by 2030, 36.5 million passengers annually will use Etihad Rail services, and this rail network will play a key role in public transport and trade in the UAE.

Source: Gulf News