By Staff Reporter
The United Arab Emirates has officially entered a new era of public transportation with the launch of its first national passenger rail service, as Etihad Rail welcomed its first paying passengers on Thursday morning.
The inaugural scheduled train departed Fujairah Station at 5:34 a.m. and arrived at Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi at 7:19 a.m., marking the beginning of regular passenger rail operations across the country.
Public interest has been strong since ticket sales opened, with more than 10,000 tickets sold ahead of the official launch. As part of the introductory phase, six passenger services are operating on the Fujairah–Abu Dhabi route, offering travellers a fast, reliable and comfortable alternative to road transport.
Passengers on the new service enjoy a modern travel experience featuring guaranteed seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, generous luggage allowances, and Premium Class options designed for enhanced comfort.
To ensure seamless onward travel, Etihad Rail is working closely with the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility) to integrate rail services with Abu Dhabi’s public transport network. The partnership will allow passengers to conveniently connect with buses, taxis and other mobility services, creating a more efficient and connected transport system.
Azza Alsuwaidi, Chief Operating Officer of Etihad Rail, described the launch as a defining moment for the nation.
“Every great piece of national infrastructure has two beginnings: the day it is built, and the day people begin making it their own. Today marks that second beginning,” she said.
She added that the first passenger service transforms a long-term national vision into an everyday reality, providing people with a new way to connect with communities, opportunities and destinations across the UAE.
Dr. Abdulla Hamad Al Ghfeli, Acting Director General of the Integrated Transport Centre, said the collaboration ensures passengers can continue their journeys smoothly beyond the railway station.
“The journey doesn’t end when passengers step off the train. It continues all the way to their final destination,” he said, adding that the integration supports Abu Dhabi’s vision for a smarter, more sustainable and connected transport network.
Passengers can book tickets through the Etihad Rail website or the official mobile application.
Source: Burson
