The authorities in the United Arab Emirates have officially announced that the country's rail network, which was previously restricted to goods transportation, will soon accommodate passenger services using a high-speed train.
According to Emirati officials, this marks a historic moment as the Etihad Rail network, initially designed for freight, prepares to welcome its first passengers aboard both classic and high-speed trains. Although the exact date for the launch of passenger services has not yet been revealed, expectations are high. The high-speed train from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is projected to reduce travel time to just 30 minutes.
The project aims to connect 11 cities, including Al Sila and Fujairah, with key stops in Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, and Abu Dhabi. The first confirmed stations will be in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah.
The initial journey times announced are as follows:
- Abu Dhabi – Dubai (fast train): 30 min
- Abu Dhabi – Dubai (classic train): 57 min
- Abu Dhabi – Ruwais: 1 h 10 min
- Abu Dhabi – Fujairah: 1 h 45 min
- Abu Dhabi – Sohar (Oman): 1 h 40 min
- Al Ain – Sohar (Oman): 47 min
Here are some key details about the upcoming train service: the trains will be designed by the Spanish manufacturer CAF and will feature three comfort classes: first, business, and economy. An agreement with the Italian company Arsenale indicates that high-quality services will be available on board. Although ticket prices have not yet been announced, it is clear that the RTA of Dubai will collaborate on ticketing and payment, with potential integration with the Nol card currently used in the city's public transport system.
While travelers await the launch for passengers, Etihad Rail's freight service is already operational. It operates with a fleet of 38 locomotives and over 1,000 wagons, capable of transporting various goods across the Emirates, thereby helping reduce the road traffic. In addition, it's worth noting that a connection to Oman, known as the Hafeet Rail, has been under construction since May 2024. This line will link the port of Sohar to the Emirates' national rail network.