Launching the first passenger train in the Emirates
The UAE entered a new chapter in transport history on Tuesday, as the country’s first passenger train service completed its inaugural journey, linking Fujairah and Abu Dhabi in just one hour and 45 minutes.The first service, operated by Etihad Rail, left Fujairah at 5.34am and arrived at Mohammed bin Zayed City station in Abu Dhabi at 7.19am, to cheers, applause and celebrations from passengers and spectators who had gathered to witness the historic occasion.This launch marks the beginning of passenger operations on the UAE’s national railway network, a project that aims to transform travel between the emirates and enhance connectivity across the country.
Ceremonies greet the first passengers
The train’s arrival was greeted with a festive atmosphere, with traditional Emirati displays, balloons, free refreshments and photo ops creating a festive atmosphere at the station.Among those on the inaugural flight was resident Greenie, who traveled with her family from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, via Sharjah and Dubai. She described the experience as smooth and comfortable, and praised the hospitality, food and service on board, describing it as an unforgettable trip for her family.
More than 10,000 tickets were sold before the launch
Public interest in the new rail service was strong, with Etihad Rail confirming that more than 10,000 tickets had been sold before operations officially began.Six passenger services are scheduled to operate during the preliminary phase on the first day, while most seats have already been booked on upcoming departures over the next few days.The excitement surrounding the train’s launch was palpable, as some residents traveled overnight to Fujairah to board the first train while others took time off work to be part of the historic event.
The expansion plan is already underway
The Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route is just the first phase of launching passenger trains on a larger scale. According to Etihad Rail officials, the network will expand in stages over the coming months.The Dubai and Al Dhaid stations are scheduled to open on September 30, 2026, followed by the launch of a station in the Al Dhafra region of Abu Dhabi on December 30, 2026.The final phase of the pre-launch is expected to end on March 30, 2027, with the opening of the University of Sharjah station.
Once completed, the network will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE.
An outstanding travel experience on board
Passengers can choose between Premium and Comfort travel classes, with all seats reserved in advance.Each seat is equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity and charging ports, while the trains operate using the advanced European Train Control System (ETCS2), allowing for high levels of automation, safety and operational efficiency.Officials also highlighted the scenic nature of the route, especially the views between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, providing travelers with a unique perspective of the country’s diverse landscapes.
Seamless off-rail connections
Etihad Rail said that great planning has been made to ensure that passengers can easily reach the stations through an integrated transport network.The company works with Abu Dhabi Transport Company and other transport authorities to connect rail services to buses, taxis, passenger transport options and public transport systems across the Emirates.Future stations are also being designed with connectivity in mind. For example, the Dubai station will be located near the Dubai Metro station, making rail-to-metro transfers more convenient for passengers.
The vision becomes reality
Speaking about the importance of the launch, Etihad Rail officials said that the passenger railway is expected to reshape how people travel, live and work across the UAE.“The first departure from Fujairah this morning is the moment when the national vision becomes part of daily life,” an Etihad Rail executive said, adding that the network will create new mobility opportunities and bring communities closer together.
