Etihad Rail reveals details of the entire UAE railway network

Yesterday, Etihad Rail Company announced 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.

The company reported that in early 2025, the first four main stations in the network were announced in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah, while today it is announcing the remaining stations in: Al Sela’a, Al Dhanna, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Muzaira’a, Al Faya, and Al Dhaid, to be operated in stages.

Engineer Azza Al Suwaidi, Executive Vice President of Etihad Rails for Passenger Services, confirmed 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 the interconnection between its emirates. It also reflects our continued success since 2023 in operating the goods train.”

She continued: “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, reliability and safety.”

Al Suwaidi stressed the national identity and future vision, saying: “Our trains have a solid 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 revitalizing domestic tourism and establish a new regional standard for sustainable, human-centered transportation, contributing to improving the well-being of society and the quality of life of individuals.”

According to Etihad Rail, the trains have been designed to provide a comfortable and modern travel experience, including comfortable and safe seats, modern interior designs, and full coverage of the Wi-Fi communication service, in addition to individual power outlets in 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, the head of the projects sector at Etihad Rail, Engineer Mohammed Al Shehhi, 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, the “Jumeirah Golf Estates” in Dubai, the University City in Sharjah, and Al Hilal City in Fujairah, pointing out that the locations of all stations were chosen in coordination with local authorities, ensuring their proximity to the communities. Population, and its harmony with the urban planning of each emirate.

He continued: “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 three 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.”

National benefits

The passenger train network, in addition to its role in enhancing mobility, 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.

• The operation of the “network” stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Al Sela’a, Al Dhanna, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Muzaira’a, Al Faya, and Al Dhaid will be carried out in stages.