The Sandpiercer network is now fully completed!
We’ve compiled a comprehensive update from the front lines of the passenger train that will connect 11 hubs across the seven emirates of the UAE.
This is part of a vast project with future goals that reach beyond our borders and into the wider GCC region.
Here’s the latest update on Etihad Rail!
October 8, 2024: Here’s what we know about the passenger train stations of Etihad Rail so far.
An article in the Khaleej Times, reporting from the Global Rail conference happening in Abu Dhabi, features Adhraa Almansoori, Director of Public Policy and Sustainability at Etihad Rail, confirming the initial two locations for the construction of Etihad Rail passenger stations: “The first will be at Sakamkam in Fujairah, and the second will be in Sharjah, University City.”
Meed.com has reported other locations it too has claimed are confirmed:
“Dubai: Located behind the Jumeirah Golf Estates metro station on the Red Line.
Abu Dhabi: Situated along the pipeline corridor that separates the Mussafah Industrial Area from Mohammed Bin Zayed City, positioned between Dalma Mall and the Musaffah bus station next to Phoenix Hospital.
Fujairah: Found parallel to Al-Hilal Street within the Al-Hilal City development.”
September 5, 2024: Hello Jordan
The UAE has signed a contract to collaborate with Jordan on constructing a 360km rail network. Could this be the initial step towards the next phase of inter-regional passenger travel for the GCC? Only time will tell. The next destination is Oman…
As part of the collaboration between the Ministry of Investment of the UAE and the Ministry of Investment of the Hashemite Kingdom in the railway sector, Etihad Rail has signed an agreement with the Jordanian Ministry of Transport to streamline the implementation of railway projects.
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) September 4, 2024
June 2, 2024: Hafeet Rail in numbers
The Oman-UAE train service, officially named Hafeet Rail, will offer beautiful scenic views along its route, but it’s also backed by impressive statistics. It will be the first “modern cross-border train in the Arab world.” The train will travel at speeds of 200 kph across a 238 km route (Etihad Rail’s line spans over 900 km), reducing travel times between Sohar and Abu Dhabi to just 100 minutes.
May 10, 2024: Construction to begin on Hafeet Rail
The Oman-UAE train service, officially named Hafeet Rail, will offer beautiful scenic views along its route, but it’s also backed by impressive statistics. It will be the first “modern cross-border train in the Arab world.” The train will travel at speeds of 200 kph across a 238 km route (Etihad Rail’s line spans over 900 km), reducing travel times between Sohar and Abu Dhabi to just 100 minutes.
April 23, 2024: Introducing Hafeet Rail
Just over a year ago, Oman Rail and Etihad Rail joined forces with Mubadala to develop a 303 km stretch of track that will connect the two GCC nations by rail. With partnership agreements signed and contracts awarded, we can now confirm that the project has entered the ‘getting it done’ phase.
The passenger and cargo rail connection will extend from the existing network in the UAE, specifically from the Al Wathba area to the city and port of Sohar. This route will traverse various geographical landscapes, including desert, mountainous, and valley regions, running alongside Jebel Hafeet. The new location has inspired the name of the network, which is now called Hafeet Rail.
April 3, 2024: Check out UAE’s first marine railway bridge in action!
The prospect of hopping on a train and traveling from one city to another is already thrilling, but it gets even better! Etihad Rail has tweeted a video showcasing the first-ever marine railway bridge connecting Khalifa Port to the Abu Dhabi mainland. The train is now fully operational following the completion of the rail network.
Designed to improve the flow of goods, the bridge will run parallel to a road bridge of the same length. And if you’re concerned about environmental impact, rest assured that measures have been implemented to protect the coral reefs in the port. Additionally, the rail will help reduce carbon emissions in the road and transport sector by 21 percent.
You can see it in action in the video below:
The #EtihadRail Marine Bridge serves as a vital link for commerce, connecting Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa Port to the mainland and allowing freight trains to traverse the Arabian Gulf. Watch the video to learn more about the UAE’s first marine bridge! @ADPortsGroup pic.twitter.com/cFLas2X33Z
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 3, 2024
March 10, 2024: crossing borders
The prototype Etihad Rail passenger train makes its journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, carrying VIP cargo on board.
Staff Major General Ahmed bin Tahnoun has embarked on a journey aboard a prototype passenger train from @Etihad_Rail’s main operations and maintenance facility in Al Faya, Abu Dhabi, to Al Qudra in Dubai. This visit aims to review the progress on freight operations at the facility. pic.twitter.com/m7D9pWLd3p
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) March 1, 2024
March 8, 2024: A Sharjah commute we can all support!
Etihad Rail has confirmed that the emirate of Sharjah will be getting its own passenger train station, which is undoubtedly great news for those living or working there who currently commute to and from Dubai by road.
الدكتور سلطان القاسمي وذياب بن محمد بن زايد يشهدان الإعلان عن ربط المسار الرئيسي لـ”قطار الاتحاد” بمحطة الركاب المستقبلية في الشارقة، الذي يأتي في إطار جهود تطوير قطاع النقل والبنية التحتية وفق توجيهات القيادة الرشيدة للدولة. pic.twitter.com/LEukjz4j9s
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) March 6, 2024
February 15, 2024: Nol-edge Fee
An MoU between the Road and Transport Authority (RTA) and Etihad Rail means you’ll be able to use the nol service for travel on the Etihad Rail passenger service.
On the sidelines of the World Government Summit (WGS), the RTA and Etihad Rail signed an MoU to develop integrated solutions for Etihad Rail passengers, allowing them to utilize the nol system as one of the various ticket booking and fare payment options. The MoU was signed by H.E.… pic.twitter.com/QI9JRSbcX5
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) February 15, 2024
January 25, 2024: Here’s how you can be one of the first to experience the Etihad Rail passenger train!
Okay, here’s the disclaimer: it’s a prototype, but you can still be among the first to experience how it will look and feel to travel on the sleek Etihad Rail passenger service! You can hop on the marvelous mechanical mock-up at Abu Dhabi’s ADQ Community Carnival, taking place from January 26 to 28 at Khalifa Park.
Join us at our stand during the ADQ Community Carnival from January 26 to 28, 2024, at Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi! Experience unique interactive activities aboard our passenger prototype train and much more. Stay tuned for three days of family-friendly entertainment and vibrant activities! pic.twitter.com/BPoAhs8roB
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 22, 2024
Proto-passengers will become part of a very exclusive group, joining other early alumni that includes the UAE’s royal families…
December 15, 2023: How Etihad Rail is helping save the planet
By cutting down road traffic, Etihad Rail is expected to lower CO2 emissions in the transport sector by 21%.
At Etihad Rail, we’re dedicated to protecting the environment and cutting down CO2 emissions. Each train journey takes up to 300 trucks off the roads, slashing 8.2 million tonnes of CO2 emissions every year from the UAE’s transport sector, helping achieve a 21% reduction in emissions… pic.twitter.com/BSFHAmNqXz
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) December 15, 2023
November 30, 2023: New passenger service launched exclusively for ADNOC employees.
H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, oversaw the signing of a partnership agreement between Etihad Rail and ADNOC. This agreement will introduce a passenger service for ADNOC staff between Abu Dhabi City and Al Dannah, highlighting the company’s vision for the future of passenger travel.
شهد سمو الشيخ ذياب بن محمد بن زايد آل نهيان، رئيس مجلس إدارة شركة الاتحاد للقطارات، توقيع اتفاقية شراكة استراتيجية بين الاتحاد للقطارات و”أدنوك”، مؤكداً على التزام الشركة بتطوير قطاع السكك الحديدية بما يعكس رؤيتها لتوفير الخدمات المستقبلية لنقل الركاب. تهدف الاتفاقية إلى تعزيز… pic.twitter.com/FxaanawQLh
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) November 29, 2023
October 31, 2023: Reaching new heights
An incredible view of the Al Bithnah Rail Bridge in Fujairah like never seen before. Spanning over 600 meters and standing 40 meters tall, it’s the highest structure in the railway network. The bridge is supported by 14 pillars, each spaced 40 meters apart… pic.twitter.com/EQMtfWUoPn
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) October 30, 2023
A video shared by Etihad Rail reveals the tallest structure in the landmark Etihad megaproject. The Al Bithnah Rail Bridge in Fujairah is an engineering masterpiece, stretching 600 meters and reaching a towering 40 meters high. Built in just 19 months, this impressive structure will be key in linking Fujairah to the rest of the UAE.
October 4, 2023: All aboard
A crew from Al Emarat TV was among the first to experience the breathtaking Etihad Rail passenger service.
دعونا نأخذكم في جولة برنامج #سوالف_يدوه داخل قطار الاتحاد pic.twitter.com/csxTXT5p0z
— قناة الإمارات (@emarattv) September 19, 2023
But not before UAE royalty
August 13, 2023: Etihad Rail in numbers
The rail network consists of
- 2,000 million concrete sleepers manufactured in Abu Dhabi
- 8 million locally produced screws and anchors
- 593 crossings and bridges
- 1 kilometer: the length of the UAE’s first marine rail bridge connecting Khalifa Port to the national rail network
- 6 kilometers of track laid at Ruwais Station
- 9,000 tonnes of asphalt used at Ghuwaifat Station
Etihad Rail connects key trade hubs in Abu Dhabi and across the UAE with an extensive network of multiple depots and 593 bridges and crossings. This project will enhance both freight and passenger transport, driving further social and economic growth in the UAE. pic.twitter.com/aEpKjWlTXn
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) August 13, 2023
July 13, 2023: Bridging connections
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If you’re driving under the Etihad Rail bridges in Dubai, be sure to check out the rail’s latest video for an aerial tour. The city will feature 11 bridges, with the Al Qudra Bridge being the largest at 611 meters long. The video also showcases the Expo Bridge, which spans 391 meters.
June 21, 2023: Etihad Rail becomes the UAE’s own ‘Rocky Mountaineer’
Etihad Rail has unveiled a video showcasing our all-time favorite UAE transport megaproject as it carves through a 145 km stretch of the Hajar Mountains, heading toward the port of Fujairah. Along the journey, passenger and freight trains will navigate through nine tunnels, totaling nearly 7 km in length, and cross multiple bridges, including the impressive Al-Bithnah Bridge, which stands 40 meters high and stretches 600 meters long. From its elevated position, it offers stunning views of the lush, rocky landscapes and possibly even a glimpse of the nearby Al-Bithnah Fort.
#EtihadRail has successfully tackled construction challenges in creating the National Railway Network, particularly the segment that winds through the Hajar Mountains to the bustling port of Fujairah. This route is notable for its unique characteristics as it passes through one… pic.twitter.com/i6TIU7P9Jx
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) June 20, 2023
May 18, 2023: These are definitely the drones you’re looking for ????????
Another exciting tech highlight at the Middle East Rail Exhibition and Conference: Etihad Rail has announced its plan to use drone technology for inspecting its freight services.
وقعت شركة الاتحاد للقطارات مذكرة تفاهم مع “سكايغو” Skygo، الشركة المتخصصة بعمليات الشحن باستخدام الطائرات المسيّرة. pic.twitter.com/dUuCPuANDd
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) May 18, 2023
May 18, 2023: Uber exciting news
At the Middle East Rail Exhibition and Conference, attended by 10,000 visitors, it was confirmed that Uber will partner with Etihad Rail through a Memorandum of Understanding.
#EtihadRail has signed an MoU with global tech giant @Uber to enhance accessible and integrated transportation throughout the UAE during the #MiddleEastRail Exhibition and Conference. pic.twitter.com/MXXYVixsjk
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) May 18, 2023
April 28, 2023: Have freight will travel
With Etihad Rail’s cargo service now up and running, you can effortlessly ship your freight from Al Faya to any destination in the UAE.
Streamline your cargo transport with Etihad Rail’s containerized freight services. Our cutting-edge fleet is designed to manage any load, including containers, guaranteeing fast and reliable transport from Al Faya to anywhere in the UAE. pic.twitter.com/hW8ZwvHgfh
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 28, 2023
April 17, 2023: Building bridges
Set against the breathtaking Fujairah mountainscape, this structure— the highest railway bridge in the UAE—looks even more majestic.
The Al-Bithnah Bridge stands as the tallest railway bridge in the United Arab Emirates and serves as a testament to the significant challenges overcome during this large-scale project. pic.twitter.com/r37OFGhXn7
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 17, 2023
April 10, 2023: The quickest route from A to B
Mountain in your way? No problem for the engineering wizards of the UAE; they simply carve a path right through it.
Here’s a stunning photo captured through the heart of the Hajar Mountains, featuring #EtihadRail’s remarkable tunnels—a true testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess. pic.twitter.com/Qiokwb3lcl
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 10, 2023
Our #PhotoOfTheWeek highlights the stunning natural beauty of Fujairah, where our train tracks weave through the mountains, connecting to Fujairah Port and the rest of the rail network. pic.twitter.com/oUeCKpfgIV
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 25, 2023
April 6, 2023: When good neighbours become friends
Etihad Rail is dedicated to showcasing the importance of conservation in their project, emphasizing their commitment to being a good neighbor. They are implementing initiatives aimed at minimizing environmental impact, adhering to maximum volume limits, and respecting fragile ecosystems. More details on this below.
Check out our bridge in Al Maha Forest, Abu Dhabi, which is also a sanctuary for diverse wildlife. As part of our commitment to being a Good Neighbor, Etihad Rail is actively working to protect and preserve the UAE’s rich natural heritage and biodiversity. pic.twitter.com/0eeAqCBJvK
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 6, 2023
February 28, 2023: Job done…
According to the Etihad Rail website, “The National Rail Network is complete.” To showcase this achievement, commercial freight operations have already commenced.
The UAE National Railway Network stands as one of the largest infrastructure projects in the country, involving collaboration among 11 contractors, 25 consultants, and 180 government entities to successfully bring the network to fruition. pic.twitter.com/LMcToljs1G
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) February 28, 2023
When will the Etihad Rail passenger services start?
It might happen sooner than we expected! Recent images from the inauguration of the National Rail Network show a group of delegates, including HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, seated in a beautifully finished interior of a passenger train carriage.
February 21, 2023: Crossing borders
Oman Rail and Etihad Rail have forged a partnership with Mubadala to support the development of a 303 km stretch of track that will connect the two GCC nations by rail.
This 200 kph link will cut travel times from Sohar in Oman to Abu Dhabi to just 100 minutes.
.@Etihad_Rail and @Oman_Rail joint venture, the Oman-Etihad Rail Company, has partnered with @Mubadala to develop the 303km UAE-Oman rail network route, worth more than AED11 billion, connecting Oman’s Sohar Port with the UAE National Rail Network. pic.twitter.com/47EbnVU3tK
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) February 21, 2023
January 18, 2023: A tale of two bridges
First on the list is the longest rail bridge on Dubai’s mainline network—the Al Qudra Bridge.
Located in the Emirate of Dubai, the Al Qudra Bridge is the longest rail bridge in the emirate’s mainline network. It serves as a crucial route for trade and commerce, significantly enhancing the movement of goods across the UAE. pic.twitter.com/i1WrbRij6f
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 24, 2023
And here’s a breathtaking shot of an Etihad Rail locomotive making its way across a 1 km marina bridge in Abu Dhabi.
Check out the Etihad Rail train as it traverses our 1 km marine bridge, linking Khalifa Port to the national railway network. This connection will enhance the efficiency of goods transportation and reduce shipping costs. pic.twitter.com/AotaAk4BQs
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 18, 2023
January 11, 2023: Breezing through the trees
The Etihad Rail Twitter account has shared an enticing glimpse of what commuting through the stunning Al Maha Forest landscape will be like. You’ll pass through patchwork green areas, glide by local wildlife (and if you’re worried about noise and natural habitats, please see below), all while experiencing those iconic train journey vibes.
Check out our tracks in Al Maha Forest in Abu Dhabi, a beautiful spot for observing rare desert dwellers. Etihad Rail has implemented careful measures to protect the natural habitats. pic.twitter.com/VuPOsQlCVl
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 11, 2023
On protecting wildlife
Etihad Rail has established key partnerships with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) to ensure that the construction of the track causes minimal disruption to wildlife and heritage sites.
For instance, the Al Maha Forest is home to several important species in the UAE, including the Arabian oryx, antelopes, and bustard birds. Located in Abu Dhabi, this forest spans over 5.5 km along the Package B route, offering incredible opportunities for animal spotting as you travel through.
Etihad Rail takes several measures to protect wildlife, including avoiding breeding sites and employing noise control technology to minimize sound levels. The company has committed to using the horn only in emergencies. Additionally, there’s a vegetation replanting scheme in place, and the track is equipped with special fencing. So far, provisions have been made for 16 camel underpasses, 45 gazelle underpasses, and 129 reptile underpasses. Moreover, the locomotives meet Tier 3 (EPA) engine emission levels, benefiting both the environment and the community.
November 22, 2022: Record-breaking bridges
The image below captures the near completion of two remarkable engineering feats in Fujairah, even before the train begins operating on this section. First, there’s the tunnel carved directly out of the stone, cutting through the dramatic, jagged landscape of the Hajar Mountains. Then, we have the Al Bithnah Bridge, measuring 600 m in length and now officially recognized as the highest railway bridge in the UAE.
يقع جسر البثنة في الفجيرة، وهو جسر جبلي خلاب للسكك الحديدية يتصل بأنفاق تشق طريقها عبر جبال الحجر، ما يسهل الطريق التجاري من الفجيرة إلى باقي مناطق دولة الإمارات.ويعد الجسر البالغ طوله 600 متر أعلى جسر للسكك الحديدية في الدولة. pic.twitter.com/xlV1VaGjQn
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) November 22, 2022
October 18, 2022: Look who’s made it onto TikTok
October 12, 2022: Hello Sharjah, hello Ras Al Khaimah
Two more emirates have joined the Etihad Rail initiative with the successful connection of Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah to the track network.
We have made significant strides in expanding the network by linking the Emirates of Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah to the main line of the UAE National Railway Network. With this milestone completed, pic.twitter.com/XTSfcVSb6E
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) October 12, 2022
October 7, 2022: Hello Abu Dhabi
The UAE Rail project has reached another major milestone with the inaugural journey of a train traveling from the far-west Mirfa Depot all the way to the gates of Abu Dhabi city, arriving at the ICAD freight terminal in Mussafah. Next stop: Dubai.
Follow the journey of our very first train as it travels from the Mirfa Depot to the ICAD freight terminal, symbolizing the shift from our current operations in Al Dhafra to the exciting new opportunities ahead. This marks a significant step in moving goods efficiently within the capital and across the emirates. pic.twitter.com/FdVkxC2sAd
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) October 7, 2022
September 30, 2022: Man, Oman
Late September brought a major update to the UAE Rail media channels, and the standout news was the exciting revelation that the inter-GCC rail connection is now a reality. A new line will link Oman to the UAE via rail, creating seamless regional travel.
Though details are still limited, we know that the 303 km stretch of track will allow for a 100-minute journey from Sohar to Abu Dhabi and just 47 minutes from Sohar to Al Ain
The highly anticipated 303-km railway, developed by Etihad Rail and Oman Rail, will connect Abu Dhabi with Sohar. This new link will significantly reduce travel times, cutting the journey from Sohar to Abu Dhabi to just 100 minutes and from Sohar to Al Ain to only 47 minutes. pic.twitter.com/nZqZIPCGEm
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) September 30, 2022
The collaborative efforts between Oman and Etihad Rail will be managed by the newly established Oman-Etihad Rail Company, a jointly owned entity. With an investment budget of USD 3 billion, the company aims to develop both freight and passenger services, ensuring a smooth and efficient operation of this cross-border railway project.
August 26, 2022: The little engines that could
It turns out “doing the locomotion” isn’t just for famous pop stars— the freight-pulling locomotives of the UAE Rail project are a core component of the network’s industrial strength. In line with the UAE’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement, these locomotives are far from your average tank engines. They’re designed to be cutting-edge, setting new standards for efficiency and performance.
Etihad Rail has reached a new milestone with the successful arrival of its advanced rolling stock fleet, featuring new locomotives and wagons. The first batches were delivered to the UAE through Zayed and Al Musaffah Ports, marking a significant step forward for the national railway network. pic.twitter.com/kUJmzLcZjK
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) August 18, 2022
Cho0-choo-choosing the right locomotives to tackle the tough job of operating in extreme weather and geographical conditions is crucial. We’re talking about the blistering heat and dryness of the desert, the humidity along the coasts, and winds that whip up clouds of dust worthy of a movie scene. Enter these custom-built, powerhouse locomotives that rolled into Al Musaffah Port this week. Not only are they top-of-the-line in performance, but they’re also designed to be environmentally friendly, durable, and—dare we say—beautiful. We’re pretty sure Francis Bourgeois would be all aboard!
Currently, there are 38 of these powerful locomotives, set to transport 60 million tonnes of cargo by 2030. The EMD locomotives were crafted in the USA, while the versatile wagons were manufactured in China. As for the 200kph passenger train fleet, that’s being taken care of by Spanish company CAF, under a €1.2 billion deal to build and maintain this high-speed, world-class fleet.
August 5, 2022: Snapped! A stunning aerial view of the rail through the Hajar mountains
As progress accelerates, Etihad Rail has shared a breathtaking aerial shot of the tracks weaving through the iconic Hajar mountains. According to Etihad Rail, the National Railway Network stretches 145 kilometers, connecting the borders of Sharjah, passing through Fujairah, and extending all the way to Ras Al Khaimah.
June 23, 2022: It’s going to cut commute times by up to 40 per cent
It’s a bold statement, but that’s the magic of rail travel—no traffic lights, no tram crossings, and no one reversing up a slip road with their hazard lights on. Plus, there’s the speed! This passenger train boasts impressive specs, reaching speeds of up to 200 kph and accommodating around 400 passengers.
Etihad Rail will link 11 cities and regions across the UAE, from Sila’a to Fujairah, cutting commuting times by up to 40% compared to other land transport options. This project will enhance transport ecosystems and improve the quality of life for both citizens and residents. pic.twitter.com/o3Je3qG2YJ
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@admediaoffice) June 23, 2022
June 22, 2022: Construction has begun on a bridge over the Sheikh Zayed Road
Earlier this week, we received updates on the significant progress of construction on the Sheikh Zayed Road (E11). Exciting developments are happening as the project moves forward!
Here’s a sneak peek at the latest construction progress of our rail bridge on Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) in Dubai. This bridge will allow trains to access the Jebel Ali rail terminal, significantly enhancing trade connectivity both regionally and internationally. Exciting times ahead! pic.twitter.com/45oGeR323j
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) June 22, 2022
When What’s On interviewed Ahmed Al Musawa, Executive Director of the Passenger Services Sector at Etihad Rail, he shared insights about the anticipated travel times between the emirates. He highlighted:
Ahmed Al Musawa stated that the train passenger services will empower users to plan their journeys between emirates and cities more effectively, leading to substantial reductions in travel time:
- Abu Dhabi to Dubai: Approximately 50 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Fujairah: 100 minutes
- Dubai to Fujairah: About 50 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Ruwais: 70 minutes
These improvements will enhance the overall travel experience and efficiency for passengers across the UAE.
So, which stops/communities the railway will serve?
Ahmed Al Musawa mentioned that the network will stretch from Al Sila to Fujairah, serving 11 cities, towns, and communities along the way, including:
- Ruwais
- Al Mirfa
- Fujairah
- Sharjah
- Al Dhaid
- Abu Dhabi
This extensive coverage aims to enhance connectivity and accessibility across the UAE
Do we know which station will be completed first?
According to the latest updates, the first completed station will be located in Fujairah. Following a site inspection of a 145 km section of the track linking Sharjah to Fujairah Port, His Highness Sheikh Theyab Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed announced that Spain’s CAF has secured a contract to supply and maintain the project’s passenger trains. The agreement was signed in the Sakamkam area of Fujairah City, which will also host the first passenger station.
Finally, when can we expect to be travelling on Etihad Rail?
While there is no official completion date for the project yet, some timelines were hinted at during the special ‘Projects of the 50’ event held at Expo 2020 in December 2021. It was confirmed that Rail Passenger Services will be the second phase of the project (following freight services) and is expected to accommodate over 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030. However, with the network already more than 70% complete, we could see passengers taking their seats well before that projected date.
