Etihad Trains reveals details of the entire network of the UAE railways for transporting passengers

Etihad Rail Company announced today the details of the complete network of the Emirates Railways for passenger transport, in a major step that reflects its firm commitment to developing the transport system and infrastructure in the country, as the passenger train network will connect 11 cities and regions with strategic stations, thus forming the first integrated national railway system for passenger transport, enhancing connectivity between the Emirates and providing safe and reliable transport services for citizens, residents and tourists.

In early 2025, the network’s first four major stations were announced in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. Today, the company announces the remaining stations in Al Silaa, Al Dhanna, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Muzaira’a, Al Faya and Al Dhaid, to be operated in phases.

Commenting on this announcement, Engineer Azza Al Suwaidi, Executive Vice President of Etihad Rails for Passenger Services, emphasized the strategic dimension of the project, saying: “Our readiness to launch passenger transportation services through the national railway network during the year 2026 comes as a translation of the vision of our wise leadership in building an integrated transportation system that supports the economic and social fabric of the country.”

She added: “The passenger train network constitutes a vital pillar in the national transportation system, which supports the country’s development path and enhances interconnection between its emirates. It also reflects our continued success since 2023 in operating the goods train. This national achievement is the result of the combined efforts of all partners and stakeholders, and relies on distinguished national expertise and cadres supported by the best international practices. We were also keen to provide the network with the latest fleet of trains and the best technologies in cooperation with international operators, to ensure the highest levels of quality and reliability.” And safety.”

She continued, emphasizing the national identity and future vision: “Our trains have a well-established Emirati identity that enhances national cohesion, and they also constitute a long-term national investment in the transportation and infrastructure sectors. These strategic projects contribute to stimulating domestic tourism, and establish a new regional standard for sustainable, human-centered transportation, to contribute to improving the well-being of society and the quality of life of individuals.”

Comfortable and easy travel experience

The trains are designed to provide a comfortable and modern travel experience, including comfortable and safe seats, modern interior designs, full Wi-Fi coverage, in addition to individual power outlets at each seat. The service will also operate according to a regular and precise schedule, thus representing an excellent and reliable alternative for passengers, ensuring quiet transportation between cities, away from road congestion.

In this context, Engineer Mohammed Al Shehhi, Head of the Projects Sector at Etihad Rail, provided additional details about the operational operations of passenger transportation services, as he pointed out that the locations of the main stations were carefully chosen to be within vital population and economic centers, such as Mohammed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah, and Crescent City in Fujairah, which ensures easy access and efficient service. He added that the locations of all stations were chosen in coordination with local authorities, ensuring their proximity to population centers and their harmony with the urban planning of each emirate.

Al Shehhi added: “Passenger trains are designed to provide a reliable and efficient transportation option between cities, providing a quiet and comfortable travel experience. 10 out of 13 trains in the network’s fleet have arrived in the country, all of which have undergone rigorous tests and been certified according to the highest international quality and safety standards. Each train can accommodate up to 400 passengers, enabling the fleet to transport about 10 million passengers annually.”

Regarding the network development work, he said: “This achievement is the result of diligent work that continued over 3 years of planning, design and implementation, during which the total working hours reached 24.5 million hours, with the participation of more than 7,000 experts and workers.”

In addition to its role in enhancing mobility, the passenger train network is expected to achieve wide-ranging national benefits, including stimulating domestic tourism, supporting mobility, and contributing to reducing carbon emissions, as well as strengthening social and economic ties between the emirates, improving the quality of life for the community, and facilitating access to all parts of the country.