The UAE’s upcoming Etihad Rail passenger service has confirmed the locations of its first 11 stations ahead of the network’s launch.
The new Etihad Rail passenger train will span approximately 900 kilometres, connecting cities and towns across the UAE’s seven emirates. Once operational, the rail service will introduce the country’s first nationwide passenger railway network.
Authorities have now revealed the locations of the first 11 stations, including a key hub in Dubai.
A recently shared preview also offered a look inside the upcoming Mohammed Bin Zayed City station in Abu Dhabi, located near Dalma Mall. The facility will include modern passenger amenities such as digital information displays, ticket gates and direct platform access.
Image: Railway Technology/Website
Etihad Rail passenger stations confirmed
The first phase of the passenger rail network will include stations across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah.
| Emirate | Station |
|---|---|
| Dubai | Jumeirah Golf Estates |
| Sharjah | Al Dhaid |
| Sharjah | University City |
| Abu Dhabi | Mohammed Bin Zayed City |
| Abu Dhabi | Al Faya |
| Abu Dhabi | Madinat Zayed |
| Abu Dhabi | Mezairaa |
| Abu Dhabi | Al Mirfa |
| Abu Dhabi | Al Dhannah |
| Abu Dhabi | Al Sila |
| Fujairah | Al Hilal |
Several of the stations are located in the Abu Dhabi emirate, reflecting the size of the network’s route through the region.
Key locations along the route
Jumeirah Golf Estates – Dubai
Dubai’s station will be located in Jumeirah Golf Estates, positioned along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The location provides convenient connections to the Dubai Metro, allowing passengers easy access to the city’s existing public transport network.
Mohammed Bin Zayed City – Abu Dhabi
This station will act as one of the main hubs for Abu Dhabi, offering convenient access to the capital’s urban areas. It is located close to Dalma Mall.
University City – Sharjah
Situated near Sharjah International Airport, the station will provide a faster travel option for passengers flying from the emirate.
Al Hilal – Fujairah
The easternmost station on the network, Al Hilal will connect travellers to Fujairah city and nearby Qidfa.
Faster travel across the UAE
Once operational, Etihad Rail is expected to significantly reduce travel times between major cities.
Estimated travel times include:
| Route | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi – Dubai | 50 minutes |
| Dubai – Fujairah | 50 minutes |
| Abu Dhabi – Al Ruwais | 1 hour 10 minutes |
| Abu Dhabi – Fujairah | 1 hour 40 minutes |
A future high-speed rail project between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is also planned, which could reduce travel time between the two cities to around 30 minutes.
Train speed and capacity
The standard Etihad Rail passenger trains are expected to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. Meanwhile, the planned high-speed rail system could operate at speeds of up to 350 km/h.
By 2030, the network aims to transport approximately 36 million passengers per year, helping transform travel and connectivity across the UAE.
