Etihad Rail Unveils UAE Passenger Network Ahead of 2026 Launch

ABU DHABI, UAE – Etihad Rail has unveiled the complete blueprint for the UAE’s first national passenger rail network, detailing 11 strategic locations set to be connected when commercial services commence in 2026. This landmark infrastructure project aims to redefine national mobility and support the country’s booming economic and tourism sectors, which saw sister company Etihad Airways carry a record 22.4 million passengers in 2025.

Etihad Rail has formally announced the full list of stations for its highly anticipated national passenger service, marking a pivotal step in the UAE’s strategic transport development. Following the initial reveal of stations in Abu Dhabi (Mohammed Bin Zayed City), Dubai (Jumeirah Golf Estates), Sharjah (University City), and Fujairah (Al Hilal area), the operator has now confirmed the remaining locations. The network will be completed in phases, with new stations in Al Sila’, Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Mezaira’a, Al Faya, and Al Dhaid, creating an integrated transport spine connecting the Emirates. “The launch of passenger services reflects the strategic vision of the Emirates’ leadership to build an integrated transport ecosystem capable of supporting the country’s economic and social development,” stated Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy Director of Mobility at Etihad Rail.

The network will be serviced by a state-of-the-art fleet of 13 trains, of which 10 have already been delivered, tested, and certified to the highest international safety standards. Each train is designed to carry up to 400 passengers, offering a modern and comfortable travel experience. Etihad Rail Project Director Mohammed Alshehii confirmed that the services will operate on a regular and precise schedule, providing an efficient and reliable alternative to road transport. The project emphasizes seamless integration, with stations planned as multi-modal hubs connecting passengers to other forms of local transport, thereby helping to reduce traffic congestion between major urban centers.

The 2026 launch is timed to coincide with a period of unprecedented growth in the UAE’s wider transportation sector. The project, a culmination of three years of intensive work involving over 7,000 specialists and 24.5 million hours of labor, builds on the operational success of Etihad Rail’s freight services, which have been active since 2023. The new passenger network is poised to become a central pillar of national mobility, directly supporting the country’s tourism and economic ambitions. This is underscored by the record performance of Etihad Airways, which saw passenger numbers surge by 21% to 22.4 million in 2025, highlighting the strong and growing demand for travel to and within the UAE that the new rail network is designed to serve.

Key Takeaways

• Full Network Revealed: Etihad Rail has announced the complete 11-city network map, solidifying the national scope of the project.
• Operational by 2026: The first phase of commercial passenger services is confirmed to launch in 2026 with a modern, high-capacity fleet.
• Integrated Transport Strategy: The project is a key component of the UAE’s vision for an integrated transport ecosystem, designed to reduce road congestion and support economic growth.

Editor’s Analysis

The unveiling of the complete Etihad Rail passenger network is more than just an infrastructure update; it is a clear statement of the UAE’s ambition to become a global leader in integrated and sustainable transport. By creating a national rail backbone, the UAE is not only connecting its cities but also future-proofing its economy. This project will catalyze development in regions outside the main hubs, facilitate easier commutes, and significantly boost the tourism and logistics sectors. For the global rail market, it serves as a benchmark for executing a national-scale, technologically advanced rail project with speed and strategic vision, demonstrating how rail can be the central element in a diversified, post-oil economic strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the Etihad Rail passenger service begin?

The first phase of commercial passenger services is scheduled to launch in 2026.

How many cities will the new rail network connect?

The network will connect a total of 11 cities and key regions across the United Arab Emirates.

What is the passenger capacity of the new trains?

Each train in the new fleet will be able to carry up to 400 passengers.