The upcoming passenger network is designed to connect 11 key cities across all seven emirates, spanning approximately 1,200 kilometres. Trains are expected to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, substantially reducing travel times between major urban centres. For instance, the journey between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is projected to take just 57 minutes, while the trip from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will be approximately 105 minutes.
The network will feature modern amenities aimed at enhancing passenger comfort, including Wi-Fi connectivity, entertainment systems, charging ports, and a variety of food and beverage options. Each train will have a capacity of up to 400 passengers.
Etihad Rail's freight operations have been fully operational since 2023, covering a 900-kilometre network that connects key industrial zones and ports, such as Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi, Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, and the Port of Fujairah. The extension into passenger services represents a strategic move to diversify the nation's transportation options and reduce road congestion.
The project also includes a high-speed rail link between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with trains designed to reach speeds of up to 350 km/h, cutting travel time between the two cities to just 30 minutes. This line will pass through significant destinations, including Reem Island, Saadiyat Island, and Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, as well as areas near Al Maktoum International Airport and Al Jaddaf in Dubai.
Station locations have been strategically planned to maximize accessibility. The first confirmed passenger station will be in Sakamkam, Fujairah, situated in the city centre. Another station is planned near University City in Sharjah. In Dubai, the main passenger station is under construction adjacent to the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station. In Abu Dhabi, a station is expected to be located along the corridor separating Mussafah Industrial Area and Mohammed Bin Zayed City, between Dalma Mall and the Mussafah bus station.
Looking beyond domestic connectivity, Etihad Rail has entered into a joint venture with Oman Rail and Mubadala Investment Company to develop the Hafeet Rail project. This 303-kilometre cross-border railway will link Sohar in Oman to Al Wathba in Abu Dhabi, facilitating smoother travel and transport between the two nations. Trains on this line are expected to travel at speeds of up to 200 km/h, covering the distance in approximately 100 minutes.
The integration of Etihad Rail's passenger services with existing transportation systems is also underway. An agreement has been signed with the Roads and Transport Authority to enable the use of nol cards for fare payment, aiming to provide a seamless and user-friendly experience for commuters.
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