The countdown is officially on for the Etihad Rail…

The UAE’s long-awaited passenger rail network Etihad Rail now has an official launch date.

During the inauguration of the new Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, confirmed that Etihad Rail’s passenger services will officially launch on Tuesday September 30, 2026.

The announcement marks a major milestone for transport across the UAE, with passengers soon able to travel between several emirates by train.

Passenger services begin this month

Before the full network launches, an introductory operational phase will begin on Tuesday June 30, 2026, with passenger trains running between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

The journey is expected to take just one hour and 45 minutes, offering a faster and more convenient way to travel between the two emirates.

Also read: Where Etihad Rail stations are expected to be located across the UAE

More stations to open in phases

The network will continue expanding over the coming months, with additional stations opening in stages.

Here’s the rollout schedule:

  • June 30, 2026: Introductory passenger service begins between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
  • September 30, 2026: Official launch of the UAE passenger rail network, including the opening of Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station.
  • December 30, 2026: Al Dhafra Train Station opens.
  • March 30, 2027: Sharjah Train Station opens, completing the planned passenger route.

A new era of travel in the UAE

The launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger network is set to transform travel across the UAE, providing an alternative to driving while making it easier to move between emirates and slo quicker.

With journey times significantly reduced on key routes and more stations opening over the coming months, the network is expected to play a major role in the UAE’s future transport system.