The launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger service is expected to be one of the most anticipated developments of 2026 for UAE residents. As the country’s national railway network nears completion, it promises to seamlessly connect some of the country’s busiest and most vibrant destinations.Etihad Rail is expected to carry 36.5 million passengers a year by 2030, and has now revealed more details about what passengers can expect on board its flights. Here are five proven features that have been identified to define experience:
Guaranteed seats
According to the company, every passenger will get a guaranteed seat inside the train. While the ticketing system has not yet been announced, a spokesperson for the World Rail Congress in Abu Dhabi 2025 indicated that passengers will be able to book their tickets in advance or buy them at the station from a vending machine.
It was also revealed that the trains will have business and economy classes for a luxurious experience.
Facilities on board
Every seat on board each train will be equipped with electrical sockets to ensure a smooth journey without any arguments over charging ports. The railway line, which will connect 11 cities and towns across the UAE, also ensures Wi-Fi is available throughout the journey, allowing people to stay connected to their work, family or friends.
You don’t have to worry about luggage space or baggage control, as the management has been dynamically focused on supporting weekend trips, holidays and family visits across the UAE.
A scenic trip across the Emirates
The Etihad Train is expected to provide comfortable trips between Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. One of its most famous features includes stunning views of natural beauty across the landscape. It will take passengers through desert cities, coastal communities and other scenery such as oryx forests and the Hajar Mountains.
In 2025, Azza Al Suwaidi, Etihad Rail’s executive vice president of mobility, described the journey as a “beautiful experience” of riding the train, adding that it provided glimpses of dunes and desert.
Speed and punctuality
Traveling at a speed of 200 kilometers per hour, the 900-kilometre-long train is expected to follow a fixed timetable that allows passengers to plan their errands and lives within the time of rapid travel. According to a press release issued by the railways, “the network locations have been carefully selected within key locations such as Mohammed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah and the Crescent District in Fujairah.
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Family-friendly travel
The trains will also have family seating options allowing parents and children to sit together. With no traffic and beautiful scenery, the company claims the trip will allow families to reconnect with each other. In addition, business travelers can go about their business and each passenger can enjoy a spacious seat as the train is expected to accommodate up to 400 passengers.
Passenger stations across the UAE
The 11 strategically located passenger stations linking urban centers, desert communities, coastal cities, educational centers and others are:Commodities, Abu DhabiAl Dhanna, Abu DhabiAl Mirfa, Abu DhabiMadinat Zayed, Abu DhabiMaziraa, Abu DhabiMohammed bin Zayed City, Abu DhabiAl Faya, Abu DhabiJumeirah Golf Estates, DubaiUniversity City, SharjahAl Dhaid, SharjahSakamkam (Al Hilal), FujairahThe project is a fundamental pillar of the “50 Emirates Projects” aimed at enhancing economic integration and reducing carbon emissions by 70-80% compared to land transportation. The rail network is designed to transform the travel experience for every resident without added traffic pressure and long travel hours between destinations.
