Etihad Rail has sold 120,000 passenger tickets in its first 30 days, as more UAE residents try the new rail service connecting Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah.
The national passenger rail network recorded 120,000 ticket sales between 30 September and 30 October 2026, following its official launch. The figures indicate growing interest in passenger rail as an alternative for travelling between major UAE cities.
The network currently connects Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhaid in Sharjah and Fujairah, giving passengers another option for intercity travel.
Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial and Support at Etihad Rail Mobility, said: “Our ambition is for passenger rail to become a natural part of everyday life, and a trusted choice that people return to time and again for comfortable, safe and reliable travel. The strong response we have seen during the first month reflects passengers’ confidence in this new mode of transport and reinforces our commitment to continuously enhancing our services in line with their needs and expectations. In doing so, we are contributing to the vision of our wise leadership to transform mobility across the UAE.”
Dubai Metro connection makes onward travel easier
Passengers using Dubai Al Yalayis Station can access the Dubai Metro through a dedicated pedestrian bridge linking the Etihad Rail station directly to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on the Red Line.
This connection allows travellers to continue their journeys towards destinations served by the Metro network.
In Abu Dhabi, shuttle buses connect Mohamed bin Zayed City Station with several destinations, including ADNOC Headquarters on the Corniche, ADNEC Centre, Reem Mall and hotels and attractions across Yas Island.
Additional transport services are available at stations in Al Dhaid and Fujairah, helping passengers reach their destinations after leaving the train.
More UAE destinations to join the rail network
Etihad Rail is also preparing to extend passenger services to more locations across the country.
Upcoming stations in Liwa, Madinat Zayed and other areas of the Al Dhafra Region are expected to open over the coming months.
The expansion will extend the network’s reach and give more UAE residents access to passenger rail services.
Rail offers an alternative for daily and leisure travel
Etihad Rail says its passenger services are designed to accommodate different travel needs, including business trips, family journeys and leisure travel.
Trains offer charging points, allowing professionals to work or prepare for meetings while travelling. Families can also use the journey time without having to drive between cities.
With 120,000 tickets sold in its first month, the network has recorded an early milestone as passenger rail becomes a new option for intercity travel in the UAE.
