Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, has confirmed that its highly anticipated passenger train service will launch in 2026. The announcement was made in a post on X.

The company also updated Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, on the latest developments of the UAE National Railway Network.

A delegation led by CEO Shadi Malak met Sheikh Hamdan at Al Dhanna Palace. They provided a detailed update on the progress of the railway project, with a particular focus on the upcoming passenger service.

Etihad Rail stated on X, “The project stands as one of the country’s largest strategic transportation projects, reflecting His Highness’s ongoing commitment to monitoring national projects and his continued support for infrastructure development initiatives across the UAE.”

The Rail Passenger Services will link 11 cities and regions across the UAE, from Al Sila to Fujairah, offering a fast and efficient travel option for up to 400 passengers per train. Travel times from Abu Dhabi will be just 57 minutes to Dubai, 70 minutes to Ruwais, and 105 minutes to Fujairah. By 2030, annual ridership is projected to exceed 36.5 million passengers.

Etihad Rail said, “The project will enable seamless connectivity between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, significantly reducing travel times. It will also enhance the quality of life for citizens, residents, and visitors while strengthening socioeconomic ties between the two emirates.”