The UAE recorded a new chapter in its transportation history on Tuesday as the country’s first passenger train service completed its inaugural journey, connecting Fujairah and Abu Dhabi in just 1 hour and 45 minutes.Operated by Etihad Rail, the first service departed Fujairah at 5.34am and arrived at Abu Dhabi’s Mohammed bin Zayed City station at 7.19am, to cheers, applause and celebrations from passengers and spectators who had gathered to witness the historic occasion.The launch marks the beginning of passenger operations on the UAE’s national railway network, a project that aims to transform inter-emirate travel and strengthen connectivity across the country.
The first passengers were welcomed at the ceremony
A festive atmosphere was created at the station, with traditional Emirati displays, balloons, complimentary refreshments and photo opportunities to welcome the arrival of the train.Among those aboard the inaugural service was resident Greenie, who traveled with her family from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi via Sharjah and Dubai. Describing the experience as smooth and comfortable, he praised the hospitality, food and service onboard and described it as a memorable trip for his family.
More than 10,000 tickets sold before launch
Interest in the new rail service has been strong, with Etihad Rail confirming that over 10,000 tickets had been sold before operations officially began.Six passenger services are scheduled to run during the initial phase on the first day, while most seats on upcoming departures over the next several days have already been booked.The excitement surrounding the launch was palpable, with some residents traveling overnight to Fujairah to catch the first train and others taking time off work to be part of this historic event.
Expansion plans already in motion
The Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route is the first phase of a mass passenger rail rollout. According to Etihad Rail officials, the network expansion will take place in phases over the coming months.Dubai and Al Dhaid stations are scheduled to open on September 30, 2026, followed by a station in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra area on December 30, 2026.The final phase of the introductory rollout is expected to coincide with the opening of Sharjah University Station on March 30, 2027. Once completed, the network will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE.
Premium travel experience on board
Passengers can choose between premium and comfortable travel classes, in which all seats are reserved in advance.Each seat is equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and charging ports, while the trains are operated using the Advanced European Train Control System (ETCS2), allowing a high level of automation, safety and operational efficiency.Officials also highlighted the scenic nature of the route, particularly the scenery between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, which offers passengers a unique perspective of the country’s diverse landscapes.
seamless connection beyond railways
Etihad Rail said significant planning has been done to ensure passengers have easy access to stations through an integrated transport network.The company is working with Abu Dhabi Mobility and other transport authorities to connect rail services with buses, taxis, ride-hailing options and public transport systems across the emirate.Future stations are also being designed keeping connectivity in mind. Dubai Station, for example, will be located close to the Dubai Metro station, making rail-to-metro transfers more convenient for passengers.
a dream becomes reality
Speaking on the significance of the launch, Etihad Rail officials said the passenger railway is expected to reshape the way people travel, live and work across the UAE.“The first departure from Fujairah this morning is the moment when a national vision becomes part of everyday life,” an Etihad Rail official said. He said the network would create new opportunities for mobility and bring communities closer together.