Abu Dhabi, UAE – Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, inaugurated the passenger train station in Mohammed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi. It also witnessed the announcement of the passenger railway network, which will start on September 30, 2026.
He reviewed the station’s most prominent facilities and equipment, information management systems, and operational readiness procedures. He listened to a detailed explanation of the station’s advanced infrastructure and future plans to develop it and increase its capacity. Mechanisms to ensure easy passenger movement during peak times. And other smart solutions and services provided by the customer service center to achieve the highest standards of operational efficiency and the highest quality specifications.
Strengthening the link between the Emirates
Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan stressed that the passenger train project embodies the UAE’s vision of building an integrated national transportation network that enhances connectivity between the country’s emirates. It supports sustainable economic growth by facilitating the movement of people and goods, and opening new horizons for investment, tourism and urban development.
He added that the project represents a strategic investment that translates the goals of the “Fifty Projects” by developing a world-class infrastructure that supports the comprehensive development process and consolidates the UAE’s leadership and competitiveness in the long term.
For his part.. Sheikh Dhiyab bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chief of the Presidential Office for Development Affairs and Martyrs’ Families and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Etihad Rail, said that the passenger train network represents a qualitative leap in the development of the national transportation system. By employing the latest technologies and innovations to develop an advanced transportation system that provides a modern, safe and highly efficient transportation experience.
He pointed out that the multiplicity of stations and their integration with various means of transportation will contribute to enhancing the flow of movement between cities and vital areas. Providing more flexible and easy transportation options for passengers, meeting community aspirations and supporting rapid urban growth across the UAE.
new phase
The launch of the passenger train network represents a new stage in the process of developing the national infrastructure. It goes beyond the traditional concept of transportation to build an integrated urban and economic communication network linking population, economic and tourism centers throughout the country.
Preliminary operation of passenger train services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah stations will begin on June 30, with the journey taking only one hour and 45 minutes. Dubai Station and Al Dhaid Station will open on September 30, 2026, in addition to stations in the Al Dhafra region, starting December 30, 2026. The passenger train will continue its route at Sharjah Station on March 30, 2027.
As part of the next phase of the project, feasibility studies will be conducted to evaluate the expansion of the passenger train network to include the rest of the country’s emirates and regions. In a way that consolidates the UAE’s vision of building an integrated national transportation system that supports the sustainable development process and enhances interconnection between various parts of the country.
The start of passenger train services comes less than five years after the UAE announced its vision for developing the national railway program. Which included the launch of the passenger train project as part of the “50 projects” in 2021.
The project’s premature completion reflects its high logistical capabilities to implement major national infrastructure projects at an accelerated pace. Transforming long-term visions into tangible results on the ground, and creating new opportunities for individuals, institutions and the business sector across the country.
The passenger train services will be operated by Etihad Trains Passenger Services, the joint venture between Etihad Trains and Quelis, one of the world’s leading passenger transport services companies. Combining extensive international experience in operating railway networks with national competencies in managing the transportation sector. To create an exceptional operating model that improves the quality of services and enhances the passenger experience to the highest international standards.
Integrated mobility experience
Passenger train stations also feature hospitality services through cafes, restaurants, retail stores and international brands. In addition to on-board dining options, the train offers an integrated transportation experience that combines comfort and meets the aspirations of all passengers, including citizens, residents, visitors, and investors, with the highest standards of quality and excellence in the transportation and logistics sector.
The National Railway Programme reflects the UAE’s vision of building an integrated national transport system that constitutes a fundamental pillar of sustainable economic and social development. Through three main projects including freight transport, passenger train services, and integrated transport services. Etihad Trains, in cooperation with its partners in the mobility sector, continues to develop a mobility system based on integration between various modes of transport. To enhance the country’s competitiveness in the logistical and economic fields, raise the efficiency of supply chains, and connect local and regional markets. Relying on sustainable means of transportation in line with the goals of the UAE Climate Neutrality Strategy Initiative 2050.
