The UAE is about to flip its travel landscape upside down – in a very good way. Etihad Rail has unveiled the country’s first national passenger railway network, with services set to begin in 2026, marking a seismic shift in how visitors and residents move between emirates.
Designed to connect 11 cities and regions, from the sands of Al Sila near the Saudi border, through the business hubs of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, to the scenic east coast at Fujairah, this isn’t just another rail project. It’s a strategic mobility game-changer with major implications for tourism, trade and inter-emirate business travel.
Expect modern, Wi-Fi-equipped trains (with outlets and room for up to 400 passengers), dramatically reduced travel times and a reliable alternative to road congestion. That means Abu Dhabi – Dubai in under an hour and a smoother journey across a network that’s as comfortable as it is efficient.
For travel trade partners looking to sell richer itineraries, this rail launch opens doors to multi-city experiences, easier access to remote regions like Al Dhafra and Sharjah’s inland oases, and fresh packages beyond the usual flight + hotel combo. Think road-trip freedom, but faster, greener, and a lot more Instagrammable.
With first-mile/last-mile integration and phased station openings throughout 2026, Etihad Rail is setting the stage for the UAE to not just connect, but to captivate. Buckle up, the future of UAE travel is officially on track!
