Kamal Ghorui
The launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger service is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated developments of 2026 for UAE residents. As the country’s national railway network nears completion, it promises to seamlessly connect some of the nation’s busiest and most vital destinations.Expected to transport 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030, Etihad Rail has now unveiled further details about what travellers can expect onboard. Here are five confirmed features set to define the experience:
Guaranteed seating
As per the company, every passenger will have guaranteed seating inside the train. While the ticketing system is yet to be announced, a spokesperson at the Global Rail conference in Abu Dhabi in 2025 shared that the passengers will be able to book their tickets in advance or buy them at the station from the vending machine. It was also revealed that the trains will have business and economy classes for a luxurious experience.
On-board facilities
Every seat on board each train will be equipped with power sockets to ensure a smooth journey without any arguments over charging ports. The rail which will connect 11 cities and towns across the UAE also ensured the availability of wi-fi throughout the journey, allowing people to stay connected to their work, family or friends. Forget having to fight for luggage space or adjust bags, the management has placed vital emphasis on supporting weekend trips, holidays and visits to family across the UAE.
Scenic journey across the Emirates
The Etihad Rail is expected to provide convenient travel between Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. One of its most iconic features includes scenic views of the natural beauty across the landscape. It will take passengers through desert towns, coastal communities and other views such as the Almaha forests and Hajar mountains. In 2025, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Mobility, Azza AlSuwaidi, described the journey as a “lovely experience” to ride the train, adding that it offered glimpses of dunes and desert.
Speed and punctuality
Running at the speed of 200kmph, the 900km-long train is expected to follow a consistent time schedule allowing passengers to plan their tasks and life around the quick travel time. As per a press release by the rail, the network’s locations have been “carefully selected within key locations such as Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah and the Al Hilal area in Fujairah.“
Family-friendly travel
The trains will also have family-seating options allowing parents and children to be seated together. With no traffic and beautiful views, the company claims the journey will allow families to reconnect with each other. Additionally, business travellers can catch up with their work and every passenger can enjoy a spacious seat as the train is expected to accommodate up to 400 passengers.
Passenger stations across the UAE
The 11 strategically located passenger stations that connect urban centres, desert communities, coastal towns and educational hubs and more are:Al Sila, Abu DhabiAl Dhannah, Abu DhabiAl Mirfa, Abu DhabiMadinat Zayed, Abu DhabiMezairaa, Abu DhabiMohammed bin Zayed City, Abu DhabiAl Faya, Abu DhabiJumeirah Golf Estates, DubaiUniversity City, SharjahAl Dhaid, SharjahSakamkam (Al Hilal), FujairahThe project is a core pillar of the “UAE Projects of the 50” aimed at fostering economic integration and cutting carbon emissions by 70-80% compared to road transport. The rail network is set to transform the travel experience of every resident with no more stress over traffic and long travel hours between destinations.
