Etihad Rail Runs Special Trains: Free Ride for Stranded Residents from Saudi Border to Abu Dhabi
In a major relief for travelers stuck due to regional airspace closures, Etihad Rail stepped in to transport hundreds of people back home. When flights were grounded earlier this week, the national railway network shifted gears from carrying goods to carrying people. Between March 3 and March 5, special trains ran from the Saudi border to bring UAE residents safely back to Abu Dhabi.
How the Emergency Journey Happened?
Many travelers were left stranded when commercial flights stopped operating. Reports show that some residents drove for nearly 28 hours from different parts of Saudi Arabia to reach the Ghuweifat Station located at the border. Etihad Rail then operated three special trains to help these passengers complete their journey.
The trains carried over 350 passengers from Ghuweifat to Al Faya Station in Abu Dhabi. This operation was not a regular service but a coordinated effort led by the Abu Dhabi Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre (ADCMC) to ensure citizens and residents could return home safely during the disruption.
Ticket Prices and Future Travel Rules
Since this was an emergency relief mission, no ticket prices were charged to the passengers. The government organized these trips to help people in need. However, for regular services launching later in 2026, the rules will be different.
- Ticket Cost: Official prices are not out yet, but they are expected to be close to bus fares.
- Payment Method: The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) will manage ticketing, and you will be able to use your nol card for payments.
- Who Can Travel: Currently, the trains are not open for public booking. Full commercial operations will begin later this year.
Stations and Latest Updates
As of March 8, 2026, Etihad Rail has confirmed the locations of all 11 passenger stations. This includes the first station in Dubai at Jumeirah Golf Estates and a key station in Abu Dhabi near Dalma Mall in MBZ City. The network is getting ready for full service, with 10 out of 13 passenger trains already certified for safety.
While flights have started slowly resuming at Zayed International and Dubai International airports, this rail operation showed how important trains can be when planes cannot fly. Officials stated that this successful run proves the network is ready to serve the public in all circumstances.