Passengers travelling between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on Etihad Rail’s passenger service can now sample Emirati-inspired dishes as part of a new onboard dining programme.
The menu, developed by Capital Catering, the food and beverage arm of ADNEC Group, combines traditional UAE flavours with contemporary dishes. It was created around the theme “A Journey Through the Emirates”.
Emirati flavours
The menu uses ingredients associated with Emirati cuisine, including dates, saffron, cardamom, local honey and Arabic coffee.
One of the signature dishes is a modern take on machboos, featuring slow-braised short rib with Emirati-spiced rice.
The menu has been created by Chef Maitha Warshaw, who was Executive Chef of the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka and has represented the UAE at international culinary events.
Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial at Etihad Rail Mobility, said: “Passenger rail is about more than moving people from one destination to another. It is about allowing passengers to experience the UAE in a new way; from the landscapes they pass through to the stories and traditions that define the nation.
Through this collaboration, we are bringing elements of Emirati culture and hospitality into the journey itself, allowing passengers to experience the flavours of the nation as they travel across it.”
Food for passengers
The onboard offering is available across Comfort and Premium classes, with breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks depending on the journey time.
A separate children’s menu is also available for families.
For a limited period, passengers will receive a complimentary Ghaf Juice Shot, inspired by the UAE’s national tree, along with locally inspired chocolates in flavours including Seven Spices, Date & Caramel, and Gahwa & Cardamom.
Arabic coffee, fresh juices, specialty coffees and premium teas are also available.
Rail experience
Hamed Al Qubaisi, Director – Commercial Capital Catering + Services, said: “Our partnership with Etihad Rail reflects the important role catering plays in the future of travel, where every detail contributes to comfort, service and a sense of place. By bringing Emirati flavours and hospitality onboard, we are helping create a passenger journey that is not only efficient and modern, but also deeply connected to the culture and identity of the UAE.”
The collaboration follows the start of passenger train services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah and forms part of Etihad Rail’s efforts to develop the onboard passenger experience.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
