UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - The United Arab Emirates launched Etihad Rail’s first-ever passenger train service, aimed at transforming transportation and easing road congestion across the country.

The inaugural journey, which operated between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi, was met with strong public enthusiasm, with more than 10,000 tickets sold ahead of the launch.

The first trains began running early in the morning from Al Hilal City station in Fujairah, completing the journey to the capital in approximately one hour and 45 minutes.

The route forms part of a broader national network expected to connect major cities, including Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and Fujairah, in the coming phases. 

The train operates at speeds of up to 200 km/h and offers both standard and premium seating, with amenities including Wi-Fi, spacious cabins, and luggage storage to enhance passenger convenience. 

The launch was widely framed as a milestone in the UAE’s long-term infrastructure strategy, which aims to reduce dependence on cars and create a more integrated public transport system.

Looking ahead, Etihad Rail plans to expand the passenger network further, linking additional cities and increasing frequency as operations scale up.

Once fully operational, the network is expected to span around 900 kilometers and serve multiple emirates, reshaping how residents and visitors travel across the UAE.