Etihad Rail has announced that its first high-speed passenger train will begin service in 2026, dramatically cutting travel time between Abu Dhabi and Dubai to just 30 minutes.
The update was shared on the company’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, confirming plans that were first unveiled in January 2025.
Fast, Electric, and Efficient
The new train will operate at speeds of up to 350 km/h, making it the UAE’s first all-electric passenger rail service. It will stop at six major stations, including:
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Reem Island
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Saadiyat Island
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Yas Island
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Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi
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Al Maktoum International Airport
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Al Jaddaf in Dubai
Expanding the UAE Rail Network
The full Etihad Rail network will span over 1,200 kilometers once completed, connecting cities and key infrastructure across the country.
The project is part of a broader development plan, including a 303-kilometer cross-border rail link between the UAE and Oman, connecting Sohar Port to the UAE National Rail Network. This joint venture, formed after a 2022 agreement between both governments, involves a total investment of around $3 billion.
Freight Services Already Underway
In addition to passenger transport, Etihad Rail has already launched freight operations, with a target to carry up to 60 million tonnes of goods annually by 2030.
First Station in Fujairah
Etihad Rail previously announced that the first passenger station will be located in Fujairah. Once the network is fully operational, the train is expected to serve 11 key regions across the UAE, providing faster, greener, and more connected travel for both residents and tourists.
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