Etihad Rail passenger services are quickly becoming a popular way to travel between the emirates, with more than 100,000 tickets sold since the introductory passenger network began in June.
The growing demand comes as residents return from their summer holidays and look for comfortable alternatives to travelling by road. With trains described as punctual, well organised and comfortable, passenger rail is starting to feel less like a new attraction and more like a practical option for everyday journeys.
The next major step comes on September 30, 2026, when the passenger network officially expands to Dubai.
More Than 100,000 Tickets Sold
More than 100,000 tickets have been sold since Etihad Rail began its introductory passenger service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah in June.
Demand has been particularly strong as the summer travel period comes to an end, with trains reaching full capacity on some journeys. The service has attracted families, commuters and leisure travellers, showing that there is already interest in using rail for different kinds of trips across the UAE.
The experience has also received positive feedback for its comfortable seating, onboard food, helpful service and organised stations.
A Comfortable Alternative to Road Travel
One of the biggest attractions of passenger rail is the chance to travel between emirates without spending the journey behind the wheel.
Passengers have highlighted the smooth boarding process, punctual departures and comfortable onboard experience. Food is also available during the journey, with different options including meals suitable for children.
For families, the service can provide a practical option for important appointments and day trips. For leisure travellers, it offers another way to explore destinations across the UAE without relying entirely on a car.
Dubai Station Opens on September 30
Dubai’s arrival on the passenger network will make the service considerably more accessible to residents of the emirate.
Al Yalayis Station, near Jumeirah Golf Estates, is scheduled to open on September 30 alongside Al Dhaid Station in Sharjah. The Dubai station will also have a pedestrian connection to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on the Dubai Metro Red Line, making it easier to combine national rail with local public transport.
Travel between Dubai and Abu Dhabi is expected to take around 57 minutes, while the journey between Dubai and Fujairah is expected to take approximately one hour and nine minutes.
More Stations Are Coming
The September expansion is only one stage of the wider rollout.
Further stations are scheduled to open through 2026 and early 2027, including Liwa and Madinat Zayed on November 30, followed by additional stations in the Al Dhafra region on December 30. Sharjah University City Station is scheduled to complete the network in March 2027.
With more than 100,000 tickets already sold, Etihad Rail’s early response suggests that passenger trains could soon become a familiar part of how residents move around the UAE.
