Etihad Rail Is Changing the Way Visitors Can Explore the UAE

Travelling between the Emirates is entering a new phase

For many years, travelling between major UAE cities has mainly meant using a car, taxi, coach or domestic flight.

Passenger rail is now adding another option.

Etihad Rail began its introductory passenger phase between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on 30 June 2026. Dubai Station and Al Dhaid Station are scheduled to join the network on 30 September 2026. Further stations are planned to open in later phases.  

For visitors, this development could make it easier to include more than one emirate in a single UAE trip.

A traveller based in Dubai may eventually be able to combine a city holiday with visits to other parts of the country using the national rail network.

A different way to plan a UAE holiday

The UAE offers very different experiences across its emirates.

Dubai is known for major attractions, shopping, beaches and international events. Abu Dhabi combines modern city experiences with important cultural landmarks. Fujairah offers a different landscape, with mountains and the east coast.

Improved rail connections could make these combinations easier to plan.

The network is being introduced in stages, so travellers should always check which stations and services are operating at the time of their visit.

For international visitors, the growth of passenger rail is another sign that travelling around the UAE is becoming more connected.