UAE makes history as first passenger train arrives in Abu Dhabi

History arrived on the platform this morning as the UAE’s first passenger train pulled into Abu Dhabi, marking the start of a new chapter in the country’s transport network.

The inaugural service departed Fujairah at around 5.34am and completed the journey in just under one hour and 45 minutes. As the train rolled into the station at 7.19am, cheers, applause and excitement filled the platform, with crowds gathering to welcome the first passengers and witness this landmark moment firsthand.

Getting to and from the station has been a key focus for Etihad Rail, with the operator planning seamless connections beyond the train journey itself.

“For Etihad Rail, the journey doesn’t just start and end with the train,” Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial at Etihad Rail Mobility, told Gulf News. “We’ve carefully planned how passengers will reach our stations, whether through shuttle buses, existing public bus networks, taxis or e-hailing services.”

She added that every station is connected to its emirate’s public transport network, while the upcoming Dubai station, set to open in September, will be located near a Dubai Metro station, potentially enabling a direct and convenient metro interchange for passengers.

Among the first passengers on board was Greeny, who travelled with her family on the historic inaugural service. Reflecting on the journey from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, with stops in Sharjah and Dubai along the way, she described the experience as smooth and comfortable.

She also praised the onboard hospitality, saying the food and service were “amazing”, making the landmark journey even more memorable for her family.

A traditional Emirati dance is welcoming the first passengers as crowds gather at the station to celebrate this historic moment, ushering in a new era of rail travel in the UAE.

A festive atmosphere has taken over the Etihad Rail station as the first passengers are welcomed off the inaugural service. A free photo booth, colourful balloons, and complimentary snacks and drinks are all adding to the celebrations, with many travellers stopping to capture the historic moment.