The UAE’s new passenger train service Etihad Rail is almost here…

The countdown is officially on for the launch of the UAE’s long-awaited passenger rail network, and travellers can now find out exactly how much it will cost to ride.

Etihad Rail has opened ticket bookings for the introductory route between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, with a limited-time launch offer giving passengers 50% off fares.

How much are Etihad Rail tickets?

For the launch period, passengers can book:

  • Comfort Class: from Dhs55 (usually Dhs109)
  • Premium Class: from Dhs120 (usually Dhs239)

The discounted fares are currently available for journeys between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, making it an affordable way to experience the UAE’s first inter-emirate passenger rail service.

How long is the journey?

The train journey between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, offering a much quicker alternative to travelling by road.

Also read: Etihad Rail announces passenger launch date

When do passenger services start?

The first passenger trains will begin operating between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on Monday June 30, 2026, as part of an introductory phase.

The wider UAE passenger rail network will officially launch on Tuesday September 30, 2026, when additional stations come online.

Which stations are opening?

The network will roll out in stages:

  • June 30, 2026: Abu Dhabi and Fujairah stations open
  • September 30, 2026: Dubai and Al Dhaid stations open
  • December 30, 2026: Al Dhafra station opens
  • March 30, 2027: Sharjah station opens, completing the planned route

What are the train times?

Initially, there will be three direct services each day in both directions.

From Abu Dhabi, trains are scheduled to depart at:

  • 8.19am
  • 1.53pm
  • 6.39pm

From Fujairah, departures are:

  • 5.34am
  • 10.59am
  • 5.28pm

What’s included onboard?

Passengers can expect guaranteed seating, complimentary Wi-Fi and modern onboard facilities designed to make travelling between emirates more comfortable.

The fleet includes 13 passenger trains, each able to carry up to 400 passengers.

How do I book?

Tickets are now available through the official Etihad Rail website and mobile app.

The Abu Dhabi station is located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, while the Fujairah station is in Al Hilal City. Both stations will operate daily from 5am to 11pm and feature facilities including waiting lounges, retail outlets, cafés, prayer rooms, taxi pick-up zones and parking.