Etihad and Etihad Rail move to connect Abu Dhabi flights with UAE rail network

Etihad Airways and Etihad Rail are exploring ways to connect flight and train journeys, as part of plans to link air passengers with the UAE’s national passenger railway network.

The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Tuesday at Arabian Travel Market 2026 to create a more seamless connection between air and rail travel for residents and international visitors.

Under the MoU, the organizations will explore a range of initiatives designed to simplify travel and strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a gateway to exploring the wider UAE.

One initiative is a dedicated shuttle service connecting Zayed International Airport to Mohammed Bin Zayed City Passenger Station, providing arriving passengers with a direct link to the national railway network and onward destinations.

The partnership will also explore the development of integrated air and rail bookings, station-based passenger services and creating a more seamless end-to-end travel experience from the point of departure to the final destination.

For Etihad, the initiative builds on Abu Dhabi’s role as an entry point for international visitors.

“Etihad Airways plays a unique role in bringing millions of visitors to Abu Dhabi each year, and our partnership with Etihad Rail reflects a shared ambition to strengthen the emirate’s position as a leading global destination,” said Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways.

“Through this partnership with Etihad Rail, we will explore new opportunities to link air travel with destinations across the UAE, supporting tourism growth, creating greater convenience for travelers and contributing to Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic development,” De added.

The agreement comes as Etihad Rail expands its passenger network across the UAE, connecting more cities and regions by rail. It also forms part of a broader push to bring different modes of transport together under a more integrated mobility network.

“Since the launch of passenger rail services earlier this year, Etihad Rail has continued to strengthen the role of the national railway network in connecting cities and regions across the UAE, while providing a smoother mobility experience for residents and visitors. Our partnership with Etihad Airways represents a further step towards strengthening integration between rail and aviation, supporting the growth of the tourism sector, economic diversification and sustainable development across the UAE,” said Azza AlSuwaidi, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Rail.

The companies said integrating aviation and rail travel could support tourism growth, economic diversification and more sustainable transport across the country.