Etihad Rail Al Dhafra Stations are set to welcome passengers earlier than initially planned, with the Madinat Zayed and Liwa stations now scheduled to open on November 30, 2026. The earlier launch means visitors will have a new way to explore the Al Dhafra region just as the UAE’s winter travel and events season begins.
The opening date was brought forward by one month from the previous December 30 target, following a directive from Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region. The move is aimed at improving accessibility to the area during its busy festival period, giving residents and visitors another transport option when exploring destinations across the UAE.
A New Way to Reach Al Dhafra
The arrival of passenger rail services in Madinat Zayed and Liwa will make travelling to Al Dhafra more convenient, especially during the region’s popular winter events and cultural celebrations.
Known for its desert landscapes, heritage experiences and seasonal attractions, Al Dhafra welcomes visitors throughout the year, with demand increasing during the cooler months. The new stations will provide another connection point within Etihad Rail’s growing passenger network, allowing travellers to explore the region as part of a wider UAE journey.
Etihad Rail’s passenger service is being introduced gradually, with stations opening in phases across the country. The nationwide network is designed to connect major cities and regions, offering a comfortable alternative for residents and visitors travelling between emirates.
Etihad Rail’s Phased Passenger Network Expansion
Passenger operations began on June 30, 2026, with services connecting Mohamed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi and Al Hilal City in Fujairah. The next phase will see the opening of stations at Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai and Al Dhaid in Sharjah on September 30, 2026.
Following the Al Dhafra launch on November 30, additional stations at Al Sila, Al Dhannah and Mirfa are scheduled to open on December 30, 2026, while University City in Sharjah is expected to join the network on March 30, 2027.
As Etihad Rail continues its phased rollout, the UAE’s national rail network is set to make weekend getaways, regional trips and everyday journeys more accessible. For those looking to discover more of the country, the upcoming Al Dhafra stations will offer a new and convenient way to experience one of the UAE’s most distinctive regions.
