Etihad Rail has released full details of the UAE’s national passenger railway network, offering a clearer picture of how train travel will connect cities and regions across the country from 2026.
The announcement completes the list of planned passenger stations and outlines what residents and visitors can expect from the new service.
Below is a practical guide to the UAE passenger rail network, including station locations, rollout plans and key service features.
What is announced
Etihad Rail confirmed all passenger stations that will form the UAE’s first fully integrated national passenger railway system. The network will connect 11 cities and regions through stations that will become operational in phases.
Passenger services are scheduled to begin in 2026.
Passenger stations list
The national passenger rail network will include stations in the following locations:
Abu Dhabi
Dubai
Sharjah
Fujairah
Al Sila’
Al Dhannah
Al Mirfa
Madinat Zayed
Mezaira’a
Al Faya
Al Dhaid
Earlier in 2025, Etihad Rail had announced the first four stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. The remaining stations complete the planned national network.
Key city areas served
In the first phase, stations will be located in major residential and urban areas, including:
Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi
Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai
University City, Sharjah
Al Hilal area, Fujairah
These locations were selected to support intercity travel and improve access between key population centres.
Service launch timeline
Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Mobility, said passenger services are on track to launch next year.
“Our preparations to launch passenger services across the national railway network in 2026 reflect the vision of our wise leadership to build an integrated transport ecosystem that supports the UAE’s economic and social fabric.”
She added: “The passenger rail network will serve as a cornerstone of the UAE’s national transport ecosystem, supporting the country’s long-term development and strengthening connectivity across its Emirates. It also builds on our proven success since 2023 in operating the national freight rail service.
“This national milestone is the result of close collaboration among all partners and stakeholders, driven by exceptional national talent and underpinned by global best practices. In parallel, we have equipped the network with a next-generation fleet and advanced technologies, in partnership with leading international operators, to ensure the highest standards of quality, reliability and safety.”
AlSuwaidi also said: “Our trains will have a distinctly Emirati identity that strengthens national cohesion, while serving as a long-term investment in the country’s transport and infrastructure sectors. These strategic projects will boost domestic tourism and establish a new regional standard for sustainable, people centred mobility, enhancing community wellbeing and improving quality of life.”
Trains and capacity
According to Etihad Rail, the passenger fleet will consist of 13 trains, with 10 already delivered, tested and certified to international safety and quality standards.
Mohammed Alshehii, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said: “Our trains have been designed to offer a reliable, congestion-free alternative for intercity travel, with a focus on reducing journey times. Ten of the 13 trains in our fleet have arrived, where they have been tested and certified to the highest international safety and quality standards. Each train can accommodate up to 400 passengers and will be operated using the latest systems to ensure reliability and security. Our services will be seamlessly integrated into the wider transport network, with stations connected to other modes of transport.”
Passenger experience
Etihad Rail said the trains are designed to offer a modern and comfortable journey, featuring:
Ergonomic seating
Contemporary interior design
Full Wi-Fi coverage
Individual power outlets at every seat
Services will operate on a fixed and regular schedule, providing an alternative to road travel and helping reduce congestion between cities.
Project scale and impact
Alshehii said the project represents years of work across the country.
“This achievement is the result of three years of intensive planning, design, and delivery, with total working hours reaching 24.5 million and the involvement of more than 7,000 experts and workers.”
Beyond mobility, Etihad Rail said the passenger network is expected to support domestic tourism, reduce emissions and strengthen social and economic ties between the Emirates by making travel across the UAE faster and more accessible.
