Etihad Rail start date revealed: Everything you need to know before the launch

Dubai: Etihad Rail, the UAE's long-awaited national rail service, is edging closer to its launch date, with the official public opening now just months away.

On 23 June 2026, the Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi was officially inaugurated, and Etihad Rail revealed key details about the passenger network launch dates, a landmark moment that brings the country's vision of seamless, interconnected travel one step closer to reality.

Wondering when you can book your first ticket, what it will cost, and how long the journey between emirates will take? Here's everything you need to know.

Introductory phase - June 30, 2026

Etihad Rail will launch an introductory operational phase of passenger rail services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on June 30, 2026

Official public launch - September 30, 2026

The network officially launches for the public, marked by the opening of the Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station.

Al Dhafra stations - December 30, 2026

Passenger stations across the Al Dhafra region will officially open to commuters.

Network completion - March 30, 2027

The route will be complete upon the opening of Sharjah Train Station.

Once the entire network is fully built out, it will link 11 distinct cities and regions across the UAE. The ultimate station list includes: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Al Dhaid, Al Dhannah, Al Faya, Madinat Zayed, Mezaira’a, Al Mirfa, and Al Sila.

The Etihad Rail passenger fleet consists of 13 high-tech trains. Each train has a capacity of up to 400 passengers and is capable of reaching top speeds of 200 km/h.

This speed drastically cuts down inter-city commuting times across the country:

Customers will be able to book journeys and purchase tickets through a range of convenient channels, including the Etihad Rail mobile application and official website, from 23 June 2026.