The UAE's long-awaited passenger rail service is edging closer to reality. Etihad Rail has officially revealed the locations of seven additional passenger stations, marking a major milestone ahead of the network's highly anticipated 2026 launch.
Announced on Thursday, January 8, the newly confirmed Etihad Rail passenger stations are located in Al Sila, Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Mezairaa, Al Faya, and Al Dhaid. These stops significantly expand the reach of the national rail network, strengthening links between urban centres and regional communities across all seven emirates.
The latest announcement brings the total number of confirmed passenger stations to 11. The previously revealed locations include Mohammed Bin Zayed City (Abu Dhabi), Jumeirah Golf Estates (Dubai), University City (Sharjah), and Al Hilal (Fujairah).
According to reports, the stations will open in phases, with the completed network eventually connecting 11 cities across the UAE. Etihad Rail's Chief Projects Officer, Mohammed Alshehii, stated that station locations were deliberately chosen to ensure key destinations across the emirates are seamlessly connected, supporting both residents and visitors.
What to Expect from Etihad Rail Passenger Trains
Set to begin operations in 2026, Etihad Rail's passenger service is designed to transform travel across the country. Trains will reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, offering a faster and more sustainable alternative to driving.
Once operational, travel times are expected to be dramatically reduced. The Dubai to Abu Dhabi train journey will take around 50 minutes, while Dubai to Fujairah will also be completed in approximately 50 minutes — a fraction of current road travel times.
Each train will accommodate roughly 400 passengers, and the network is forecast to serve more than 36 million passengers annually by 2030.
Cabin Classes and Onboard Features
Passengers will be able to choose from three cabin classes:
- Economy Class — featuring modern back-to-back seating - Family Class — designed with face-to-face seating and extended tables - First Class — offering wider, adjustable seats for added comfort
All cabins will include tray tables, overhead luggage storage, and interiors designed for longer-distance comfort. Prototype designs unveiled at the Global Rail Conference in Abu Dhabi highlighted a clean, contemporary aesthetic across all three classes.
Ticket Pricing and Nol Card Payment
While ticket prices have not yet been officially announced, Etihad Rail has confirmed that ticketing will be managed by Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). This has fuelled expectations that Nol cards may be accepted as a payment method once services begin — making transfers between Etihad Rail and Dubai Metro seamless for commuters.
With all 11 Etihad Rail passenger station locations now confirmed and testing underway, the UAE's national passenger railway is fast becoming one of the most significant transport launches in the country's history.
