Etihad Rail has quickly become a preferred mode of transport for UAE residents, with the national railway network reporting a successful start to its passenger operations. Since the service officially commenced on June 30, 2026, it has already moved over 70,000 passengers, reflecting a strong shift in regional travel habits. Passengers are increasingly opting for the train for weekend getaways and daily commutes, with data showing that travelers are now proactively booking their journeys an average of 12 days in advance.
Key highlights regarding the service include:
- Over 70,000 tickets sold since the June 30, 2026, launch.
- Introduction of a new ‘Rail To Road’ car rental partnership with Thrifty UAE.
- Expansion of the network to include several new stations by early 2027.
- Advance booking facility now available for up to four weeks.
Strategic Network Expansion
Etihad Rail officials have confirmed that the network is moving ahead of schedule with its infrastructure rollout. The service currently connects Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, but this will soon change. Dubai (near Jumeirah Golf Estates) and Al Dhaid (Sharjah) stations are slated to open by September 30, 2026. Following this, the Al Dhafra region will see stations at Liwa and Madinat Zayed open by November 30, 2026, with additional stations in the region following by December 30, 2026. Finally, the Sharjah city station is expected to be operational by March 30, 2027.
Enhanced Passenger Convenience
To bridge the “last-mile” connectivity gap, Etihad Rail has partnered with Thrifty UAE. This initiative provides a seamless ‘Rail To Road’ car rental service, which launched with 500 vehicles. This move is designed to cater to families and tourists who require flexibility upon reaching their destination. Azza Al Suwaidi, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Rail, noted that the high ridership figures prove that passengers are integrating the train into their regular travel planning rather than simply using it for novelty.
As the network continues its introductory phase, management is closely monitoring passenger demand to adjust capacity. With the ability to book tickets up to four weeks in advance, commuters are encouraged to take advantage of the current introductory fares while planning their future travels across the Emirates.