New Railway Route in the UAE: From Abu Dhabi to Fujairah

Opening of Railway Service in the UAE

On 30 June 2026, in a country where cars, buses and taxis have traditionally dominated, the first regular passenger railway will start operating. The project is led by the national company Etihad Rail, and the launch was announced by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

First Route: Abu Dhabi – Fujairah

Key Parameters

• Non‑stop service – the train will run directly between the capital and the eastern emirate.
• Travel time – about 1 hour 45 minutes, considerably faster than a road transfer.
• Speed – planned up to 200 km/h, although initial operations will be slower to ensure comfort.

Ticket Prices and Promotion

Tickets are already on sale. The basic fare in the Comfort class starts from 55 AED, while the more spacious Premium class starts from 120 AED. A 50 % launch discount makes the trip affordable for both residents and tourists eager to try the new mode of transport.

How the Railway Changes the UAE Tourist Landscape

New Travel Logistics

Before the railway, most visitors limited themselves to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and trips to other emirates were treated as separate excursions that required a rental car or long transfers. Now the two major hubs are linked quickly and hassle‑free, allowing more flexible itineraries.

Sample New Itineraries

• Cultural and business tour: spend a few days in Abu Dhabi, then take the train to Fujairah for a seaside break and return via another emirate.
• Eco‑friendly getaway: travel without a car, using the railway together with local buses and taxis.
• Multi‑emirate tour: once stations in Dubai and Sharjah open, travelers will be able to combine three‑four emirates in a single program without changing transport modes.

Planned Network Expansion

Autumn Opening of New Stations

On 30 September the same year, two more stations are slated to open: Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai and Al Dhaid in Sharjah. This will make the rail network more attractive to tourists, allowing these popular destinations to be added to itineraries.

Long‑Term Outlook

Ultimately Etihad Rail aims to connect about 11 cities and regions, stretching the line to roughly 900 km. When fully realised, passenger trains could run at up to 200 km/h, comparable to European high‑speed routes.

Things Travelers Should Keep in Mind

• Frequency: the exact timetable is still being finalised, but several trains per day are expected, giving flexibility for daily planning.
• Luggage: baggage rules have not been announced yet, but similar systems usually allow one main suitcase and a small hand‑carry.
• Integration with local transport: stations will be situated close to public‑transport hubs, making transfers to taxis, buses or metro easy.

Conclusion

The launch of Etihad Rail’s first passenger train is more than a new way to get around – it’s a strategic step that could reshape the UAE’s tourist map. The fast link between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah opens access to diverse landscapes, from modern business districts to mountainous and coastal zones. With upcoming extensions in Dubai and Sharjah and plans to cover most of the country, the railway promises to become a key piece of infrastructure that boosts tourism and reduces reliance on private cars.

For anyone planning a trip to the UAE soon, it’s worth checking the new rail options, comparing them with traditional choices, and perhaps adding a train ride to the itinerary to experience the country from a fresh, more convenient perspective.

Based on materials from: trn-news.ru.