The UAE’s first national passenger rail service entered operation as Etihad Rail welcomed its first paying passengers aboard the inaugural scheduled service from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, marking a major milestone in the country’s transport sector.
The inaugural train departed Fujairah Station and arrived at Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi, officially launching scheduled passenger rail services in the UAE.
Etihad Rail stated that customer demand has been strong since bookings opened, with more than 10,000 tickets sold ahead of the launch.
Six passenger services are operating during the first day as part of the introductory phase of the national passenger network, offering a safe, reliable and comfortable travel option between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi.
Passengers on the inaugural services have access to guaranteed seating, onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, generous luggage allowances and Premium Class services designed to enhance comfort and convenience.
To provide seamless onward travel, Etihad Rail said it is working with the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) to integrate passenger rail with Abu Dhabi’s public transport network, allowing customers to connect easily with buses, taxis and other mobility services.
“Every great piece of national infrastructure has two beginnings: the day it is built, and the day people begin making it their own. Today, with the support and guidance of our wise leadership, we embark on that second beginning. The first departure from Fujairah this morning is the moment a national vision becomes part of everyday life, giving people a new way to connect with one another, with opportunity and with the places that make our country so unique. Years from now, today’s passengers will be able to say they were there at the very beginning.”
Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said that, “We have integrated passenger rail with Abu Dhabi’s wider public transport network, making it easier than ever for residents and visitors to continue their journeys using buses, taxis and other mobility services. Another important step towards delivering a smarter, more connected and more sustainable transport system that offers people greater choice while supporting Abu Dhabi’s long-term mobility vision.”
