ABU DHABI – The UAE can look forward to a new generation of transport with Etihad Rail affirming its eagerly anticipated 2026 passenger launch, reducing between-country travel by as much as 70% and covering all seven emirates in the comfort of air-conditioned bliss.
What Travelers Can Expect
Speed: 200km/h trains (quieter and speedier than those on most European networks)
Time Savings:
– Abu Dhabi to Dubai: 50 minutes (compared to 90+ mins by car)
– Dubai to Fujairah: 1 hour 15 mins (compared to 2.5+ hour mountain drive)
Fares: Will be 30% cheaper than intercity taxis
Why This Changes Everything:
– First integrated national rail network in GCC history
– 11 stations including urban hubs and remote areas like Ruwais
– Seamless connections to Dubai Metro, Abu Dhabi buses
The Tech Edge:
• AI-Powered Scheduling: Dynamic timetables adjusting for desert conditions
• Solar-Powered Stations: First in Middle East
• Biometric Boarding: Emirates ID replaces tickets
Bottom Line:
More than trains – it’s the central nervous system of UAE’s next 50 years. As HH Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed announced: “From pearl divers to bullet trains in three generations – only in the Emirates.”
