A brand new passenger rail service is set to launch later this year and will cut travel times betweenDubaiand Abu Dhabi to just 50 minutes. It currently takes about an hour and a half to travel by car or bus between both cities depending on traffic. Currently focused on freight, the UAE’s national railway network,Etihad Rail, is preparing to launch a fully integrated passenger service that will connect 11 cities across the country includingAbu Dhabi, Dubai,Sharjah, and Fujairah.
The new 560-mile rail line will roll out in phases linking major urban hubs with strategically located stations. Trains will operate at speeds of up to 125 miles per hour and each of the 13 newtrainswill be able carry up to 400 passengers.
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The trains will have safe and ergonomic seating, contemporary interior designs, full Wi-Fi coverage, and individual power outlets at every seat.
The company said services will operate on a precise and regular schedule, thereby offering passengers a reliable and efficient alternative.
Mohammed Alshehii, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, confirmed that the passenger service will officially launch in 2026. In its first phase, the network will link 11 carefully selected cities and areas, including Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah, and the Al Hilal district in Fujairah.
He said:"Our trains have been designed to offer a reliable, congestion-free alternative for intercity travel, with a focus on reducing journey times. Ten of the 13 trains in our fleet have arrived, where they have been tested and certified to the highest international safety and quality standards.
"Each train can accommodate up to 400 passengers and will be operated using the latest systems to ensure reliability and security. Our services will be seamlessly integrated into the wider transport network, with stations connected to other modes of transport.”
Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO, Etihad Rail Mobility, said: “Our preparations to launch passenger services across the national railway network in 2026 reflect the vision of our wise leadership to build an integrated transport ecosystem that supports the UAE’s economic and social fabric.”
Source: Daily Express :: World Feed
