Etihad Rail sells over 120,000 tickets in first month after passenger service launch

Etihad Rail has reported selling more than 120,000 passenger tickets during its first month of operations, following the official launch of the UAE’s national passenger rail network on 30 September.

Strong passenger response

The inaugural service between Dubai and Abu Dhabi generated considerable excitement, marking a new era of connectivity between the two cities. The company expects the service to encourage repeat ridership.

“Our ambition is for passenger rail to become a natural part of everyday life, and a trusted choice that people return to time and again for comfortable, safe and reliable travel,” said Adhraa Almansoori, executive director of commercial and support at Etihad Rail Mobility.

Since the 30 September launch, four stations have been operational: Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed City, Dubai Al Yalayis, Al Dhaid, and Fujairah.

“The strong response we have seen during the first month reflects passengers’ confidence in this new mode of transport and reinforces our commitment to continuously enhancing our services in line with their needs and expectations. In doing so, we are contributing to the vision of our wise leadership to transform mobility across the UAE,” Almansoori added.

Station openings ahead

On 3 August, Etihad Rail announced that ticket sales for the introductory passenger service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah had exceeded 70,000 since its launch on 30 June.

On 30 November, two stations in Al Dhafra — Madinat Zayed and Liwa — will open ahead of the region’s winter festivals. The Al Sila, Al Mirfa, and Al Dhannah stations will follow on 30 December. Sharjah’s University City station, the final one of the first phase, will open on 30 March 2027.

Future connectivity plans

Future plans include a station in Dubai and a rail connection to Oman via Hafeet Rail, as part of the broader GCC Railway network expected to become operational by 2030.

What changes for you

What

New passenger rail stations opening in Al Dhafra (Madinat Zayed and Liwa on 30 November), followed by Al Sila, Al Mirfa, and Al Dhannah on 30 December, and Sharjah University City station on 30 March 2027.

From when

30 November 2026 (first opening date)

Who

Residents and travellers in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE

Where

At the respective stations and via Etihad Rail ticketing channels