The Sandpiercer network is now fully completed, with 100% of the infrastructure in place…
We’ve put together an in-depth dispatch from the front lines of the passenger train, set to connect 11 hubs across all seven emirates of the UAE.
It’s part of a vast, forward-thinking project with ambitions that go beyond our borders, aiming to connect the entire GCC in the future.
Here’s the latest news on Etihad Rail
November 18, 2024: It’s a little thing called business class sweetie
The latest video update from Etihad Rail’s ongoing series on the mega project gave us a sneak peek of the prototype premium cabins—blink and you’ll miss them. Designed in a sleek herringbone layout, they’re reminiscent of some airlines’ business class seating. This Sanpiercer Plus (not the official name) might take second place when compared to the upcoming Orient Express-style luxury cruise train that’s set to hit the tracks in the future. Think panoramic windows and fine dining options. Though, let’s hope there’s less need for Belgian detectives on board.
In the fifth episode of our series, media presenter Diala Ali, along with Engineer Kholoud Al Mazrouei, takes you on an exclusive tour of Al Faya Depot, the heart of operations and maintenance for the Etihad Rail network. In this episode, we dive into the key locations of the railway… watch here
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) November 11, 2024
October 15, 2024: Are we nearly there yet?
Etihad Rail has now confirmed the travel times for some of its future passenger train routes. They are as follows:
- Abu Dhabi (city) to Dubai: 57 minutes
- Abu Dhabi (city) to Al Ruwais (within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi): 70 minutes
- Abu Dhabi (city) to Fujairah: 105 minutes
These journey times were unveiled following the conclusion of the inaugural edition of the Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition and Conference, marking a significant milestone for Etihad Rail as it prepares to launch passenger services across the UAE.
Abu Dhabi to Dubai: 57 minutes
Abu Dhabi to Al Ruwais: 70… pic.twitter.com/hVuIjl5GAF
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) October 15, 2024
October 8, 2024: This is what we know about Etihad Rail’s passenger train stations so far
An article in Khaleej Times, reporting from the Global Rail Conference currently underway in Abu Dhabi, highlights a key announcement by Adhraa Almansoori, Director of Public Policy and Sustainability at Etihad Rail. She confirmed the first two locations for the construction of the Etihad Rail passenger stations: Sakamkam in Fujairah and University City in Sharjah. These stations are set to be pivotal hubs for the new passenger train network, enhancing connectivity across the UAE.
Meed.com has reported other locations it too has claimed are confirmed:
Here are the confirmed locations for Etihad Rail’s upcoming passenger train stations, as reported:
- Dubai: Behind the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on the Red Line.
- Abu Dhabi: Along the pipeline corridor between Mussafah Industrial Area and Mohammed Bin Zayed City, situated between Dalma Mall and Mussafah Bus Station, next to Phoenix Hospital.
- Fujairah: Parallel to Al-Hilal Street within the Al-Hilal City development.
These stations are set to serve as key points along the rail network, providing easy access to the growing UAE rail infrastructure.
September 5, 2024: Hello Jordan
The UAE has signed a contract to collaborate with Jordan on the construction of a 360km rail network. Could this be the first step toward the next phase of inter-regional passenger travel for the GCC? Only time will tell. The next destination? Oman… Stay tuned to see how this ambitious project evolves and connects the region.
As part of the collaboration between the Ministry of Investment of the UAE and the Ministry of Investment of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in the railway sector, Etihad Rail has signed an agreement with the Jordanian Ministry of Transport to facilitate the implementation of the railway project… watch here
— 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 more than just stunning scenery—it’s backed by impressive numbers. Set to become the first “modern cross-border train in the Arab world,” Hafeet Rail will travel at speeds of up to 200 kph, covering 238 km of track (compared to Etihad Rail’s 900+ km network). The service will cut travel times between Sohar and Abu Dhabi down to just 100 minutes, making cross-border travel quicker and more efficient than ever before.
May 10, 2024: Construction to begin on Hafeet Rail
Following the announcement of the new name Hafeet Rail for the Oman-UAE railway last month, the trio of companies behind the project – Etihad Rail, Oman Rail, and Mubadala Investment Company – have officially entered into an agreement to begin construction. The agreement for the $3 billion project, which will connect Oman and the UAE by rail, was signed during the state visit of Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, Sultan of Oman, to the UAE. This marks a significant milestone in strengthening regional connectivity and infrastructure.
April 23, 2024: Introducing Hafeet Rail
A little over a year ago, Oman Rail, Etihad Rail, and Mubadala joined forces to develop a 303 km stretch of track that will connect the two GCC nations by rail. Now, with partnership agreements signed and contracts awarded, the project has officially entered the “getting it done” phase.
The new passenger and cargo rail connection will extend from the existing network in the UAE, starting in the Al Wathba area, and will reach the city and port of Sohar in Oman. The route will pass through diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains and valleys, running alongside the iconic Jebel Hafeet. This stunning location inspired the new name for the network, which is now officially called Hafeet Rail.
April 3, 2024: Watch UAE’s first marine railway bridge in action
The excitement of being able to travel between cities by train is already a huge milestone, but Etihad Rail has just raised the bar. They’ve shared a video showcasing the first-ever marine railway bridge, which connects Khalifa Port to the Abu Dhabi mainland. With this major infrastructure development now complete, the train service is officially fully operational, marking another significant step in the progress of the rail network. It’s a game-changer for connectivity, bringing new levels of convenience and efficiency to travel in the UAE.
Designed to boost the flow of goods, the new marine railway bridge will run parallel to an existing road bridge of the same length. And for those concerned about the environment, rest assured that measures have been taken to protect the coral reefs in the port area. Additionally, the rail connection is expected to reduce carbon emissions in the road and transport sector by 21%, making it a key player in the UAE’s push toward more sustainable transport solutions.
You can see it in action in the video below:
The #EtihadRail Marine Bridge represents a lifeline for commerce, connecting Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa Port to the mainland and allowing freight trains to cross the Arabian Gulf. Watch to learn more about the first marine bridge of its kind in the UAE.
@ADPortsGroup
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 3, 2024
March 10, 2024: crossing borders
The prototype Etihad Rail passenger train has made its maiden journey, traveling from Abu Dhabi to Dubai with VIP cargo on board. Staff Major General Ahmed bin Tahnoun embarked on this test ride from Etihad Rail’s main operations and maintenance facility in Al Faya, Abu Dhabi, to Al Qudra in Dubai. This journey was part of a visit to review progress on freight operations at the facility.
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) March 1, 2024
March 8, 2024: a Sharjah commute we can all get behind Etihad Rail
has confirmed that Sharjah will be getting its very own passenger train station—news that is sure to be welcomed by residents and commuters who currently rely on the road to travel between Sharjah and Dubai. This new station will provide a faster, more convenient alternative to the daily traffic grind, offering a significant boost to public transport in the emirate.
لدكتور 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 soon be able to use the nol service for travel aboard the Etihad Rail passenger service.
On the sidelines of the World Government Summit (WGS), RTA and Etihad Rail signed the MoU to develop integrated solutions, enabling Etihad Rail passengers to use the nol system as one of the various options for ticket booking and fare payments. This collaboration aims to provide a seamless and convenient travel experience for passengers.
The MoU was signed by H.E. … pic.twitter.com/QI9JRSbcX5
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) March 6, 2024
January 25, 2024: How you can be one of the first to try the Etihad Rail passenger train experience
Heads up: It’s still a prototype, but here’s your chance to be one of the first to get a sneak peek at the future of travel with Etihad Rail’s super-sleek passenger service! Step into the cutting-edge mechanical mock-up at the ADQ Community Carnival in Abu Dhabi. Catch us at Khalifa Park from January 26–28, 2024, for an exclusive experience.
Swing by our booth at the ADQ Community Carnival for three days packed with interactive activities, the chance to explore the prototype train, and tons of family-friendly fun. Don’t miss out—mark your calendar and get ready for a good time! … pic.twitter.com/BPoAhs8roB
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 22, 2024
Proto-passengers will be part of an ultra-exclusive crew, joining a VIP list that already includes the UAE’s royal families and other elite early adopters…
December 15, 2023: How Etihad Rail is helping save the planet
Etihad Rail is set to make a major impact on reducing CO2 emissions by replacing road traffic, with projections showing a 21% decrease in emissions from the transport sector.
We’re all in at Etihad Rail when it comes to protecting the planet. Every train journey takes up to 300 trucks off the road, cutting down a massive 8.2 million tonnes of CO2 emissions each year from the UAE’s road transport network—contributing to a 21% overall reduction in carbon emissions. pic.twitter.com/BSFHAmNqXz
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) December 15, 2023
November 30, 2023: New passenger service announced for ADNOC staff
H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, attended the signing of a partnership deal with ADNOC, launching a new service to transport ADNOC staff between Abu Dhabi City and Al Dannah—demonstrating the company’s forward-thinking vision for the future of passenger travel.
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
Check out this stunning, never-before-seen shot of the Al Bithnah Rail Bridge in Fujairah! Spanning over 600 meters and soaring 40 meters high, it stands as the tallest structure in the entire railway network. Supported by 14 massive pillars, each spaced 40 meters apart, it’s a true engineering marvel.
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) October 30, 2023
Etihad Rail just dropped a video showcasing the tallest feat of engineering in their iconic megaproject: the Al Bithnah Rail Bridge in Fujairah. This stunning bridge stretches 600 meters and rises 40 meters high, a true engineering marvel. It took 19 months to complete, and it’s set to play a key role in linking Fujairah with the rest of the UAE.
October 4, 2023: All aboard
A team from Al Emarat TV became amongst the first to ride the stunning 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 is comprised of
- 2,000 million concrete sleepers (in Abu Dhabi)
- 8 million screws and anchors, made locally
- 593 crossings and bridges
- 1 kilometre – the length of the first marine rail bridge in the UAE connecting Khalifa port to the rest of the UAE network
- 9.6 kilometres – the length of track at Ruawis station
- 9,000 tonnes of asphalt has been used at Guhwaifat station
Etihad Rail connects key trade hubs across Abu Dhabi and the UAE with an expansive network of depots, bridges, and crossings—593 in total. This groundbreaking project will not only boost freight and passenger transport but also drive social and economic growth throughout the UAE.
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) August 13, 2023
July 13, 2023: Bridging connections
View this post on Instagram
Next time you’re driving beneath the Etihad Rail bridges in Dubai, check out their latest video for an epic aerial tour! The city will soon be home to 11 impressive bridges, including the massive Al Qudra Bridge, which stretches 611 meters. The video also gives you a close-up of the stunning Expo Bridge, measuring 391 meters in length.
June 21, 2023: Etihad Rail becomes the UAE’s own ‘Rocky Mountaineer’
Etihad Rail just dropped a new video showing our all-time favorite UAE transport mega-project carving its way through a 145km stretch of the stunning Hajar Mountains, heading toward the port of Fujairah. Along the route, both passenger and freight trains will glide through nine tunnels, totaling nearly 7km, and cross multiple bridges—one of the standouts being the Al-Bithnah Bridge, which rises 40 meters and stretches 600 meters long. From its elevated position, riders will enjoy sweeping views of lush, rocky landscapes and maybe even catch a glimpse of the historic Al-Bithnah Fort nearby.
#EtihadRail has tackled some serious construction challenges in bringing the National Railway Network to life, especially the section that winds through the Hajar Mountains all the way to Fujairah’s vibrant port. This track is not just a marvel of engineering—it’s a journey through some of the UAE’s most breathtaking natural scenery. pic.twitter.com/i6TIU7P9Jx
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) June 20, 2023
May 18, 2023: These are the drones you’re looking for
Here’s another future tech moment from the Middle East Rail Exhibition and Conference! Etihad Rail has just revealed it will be leveraging drone technology to inspect its freight services, taking innovation to new heights in the rail industry.
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
Big news from the Middle East Rail Exhibition and Conference, where 10,000 visitors gathered! It was officially confirmed that Uber will be teaming up with Etihad Rail.
#EtihadRail has signed an MoU with global tech giant @Uber to create a seamless, integrated transportation network across the UAE, bringing even more accessibility to travel in the region. pic.twitter.com/MXXYVixsjk
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) May 18, 2023
April 28, 2023: Have freight will travel
Etihad Rail’s cargo service is now up and running, offering fast, reliable freight transport from Al Faya to anywhere in the UAE.
Take advantage of our cutting-edge containerized freight services, designed to handle any load with ease. Our state-of-the-art fleet ensures your cargo gets where it needs to go quickly and efficiently, no matter the destination across the UAE. pic.twitter.com/hW8ZwvHgfh
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 28, 2023
April 17, 2023: Building bridges
Set against some stunning Fujairah mountainscape, this — what is the highest railway bridge in the UAE — looks even more majestic.
The Al-Bithnah Bridge is the highest railway bridge in the United Arab Emirates and is considered a testament to the immense challenges faced by this large-scale project. pic.twitter.com/r37OFGhXn7
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) April 17, 2023
Our #PhotoOfTheWeek showcases the natural beauty of Fujairah, where our train tracks extend through the mountains, 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 has made it a priority to showcase its commitment to environmental conservation and being a responsible “good neighbour.” With initiatives focused on minimizing environmental impact, respecting delicate ecosystems, and adhering to strict volume limits, they’re working hard to balance development with sustainability.
One example of this effort is the stunning bridge in Al Maha Forest, Abu Dhabi—a region rich in wildlife and biodiversity. As part of their environmental responsibility, Etihad Rail has implemented measures to protect and preserve the UAE’s natural heritage while advancing the project. Check out the video for more on this:
Take a look at our bridge in Al Maha Forest in Abu Dhabi, also home to a diversity of wildlife. As part of our commitment to being a Good Neighbour, Etihad Rail has taken steps to protect and conserve 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 Etihad Rail’s website, “The National Rail Network is complete!” And to prove it, commercial freight operations have already kicked off.
The UAE National Railway Network is one of the country’s most ambitious infrastructure projects, with 11 contractors, 25 consultants, and 180 government entities coming together to make it happen.
When will Etihad Rail passenger services launch?
The wait may be shorter than we thought. Recent images from the inauguration of the National Rail Network show HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, enjoying the finished interior of a passenger train carriage. Looks like the launch is closer than ever!
February 21, 2023: Crossing Borders
Big news for regional connectivity! Oman Rail and Etihad Rail have teamed up, along with Mubadala, to develop a 303km stretch of track that will connect the UAE and Oman by rail. This high-speed 200kph link will cut travel time between Sohar in Oman and Abu Dhabi to just 100 minutes.
The joint venture, the Oman-Etihad Rail Company, is partnering with Mubadala to deliver this project, worth over AED 11 billion, which will connect Oman’s Sohar Port with the UAE National Rail Network.
.@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, let’s talk about the Al Qudra Bridge—the longest rail bridge on Dubai’s mainline network. Located in Dubai, this iconic bridge is key to facilitating trade and commerce, helping move goods efficiently across the UAE.
.pic.twitter.com/i1WrbRij6f
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 24, 2023
Next up, check out this stunning shot of an Etihad Rail locomotive passing over a 1km marine bridge that connects Khalifa Port to the national railway network in Abu Dhabi. This bridge is a game-changer for goods transportation, boosting efficiency and slashing shipping costs.
Take a look at Etihad Rail train as it passes through our 1 km marine bridge connecting Khalifa port to the national railway network. This will improve the efficiency of goods transportation and cuts down on shipping expenses. pic.twitter.com/AotaAk4BQs
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 18, 2023
January 11, 2023: Breezing Through the Trees
Etihad Rail gives us a sneak peek into the journey through the picturesque Al Maha Forest in Abu Dhabi, offering a glimpse of the landscape’s stunning patchwork of greens and the wildlife that calls this area home. The train journey will give you major “iconic travel vibes.”
Take a look at our tracks in Al Maha Forest in Abu Dhabi, a beautiful destination to observe the rare desert dwellers. Etihad Rail took careful measures to protect the natural habitats and pic.twitter.com/VuPOsQlCVl
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 11, 2023
On Protecting Wildlife
Etihad Rail is committed to preserving the UAE’s natural heritage. They’ve partnered with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) to minimize disruption to wildlife and heritage sites during construction. The Al Maha Forest is home to key species like the Arabian oryx, antelopes, and bustard birds.
In response, Etihad Rail has taken several measures to protect these species:
- The track avoids crossing breeding sites.
- Noise control technology is used to limit sound levels, and the horn is only used in emergencies.
- Vegetation replanting is underway.
- Special fencing has been installed, and 16 camel underpasses, 45 gazelle underpasses, and 129 reptile underpasses have been included in the design.
- Locomotives meet Tier 3 EPA emissions standards, making them environmentally friendly for everyone.
Etihad Rail’s careful planning ensures the project coexists harmoniously with the environment while promoting sustainable development across the region.
November 22, 2022: Record-Breaking Bridges
Check out this stunning image of two engineering marvels in Fujairah, nearing completion—before the trains have even started running! First, there’s the impressive tunnel carved through the rugged, jagged Hajar Mountains, a true feat of engineering, cut directly from the stone. And then, there’s the Al Bithnah Bridge, stretching an incredible 600 meters and now officially the tallest railway bridge in the UAE.
These projects are setting the stage for what promises to be a game-changing stretch of the Etihad Rail network.
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 network! Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah are now officially connected to the UAE National Railway Network, marking a major milestone in the ongoing expansion of the rail system.
We’ve made great strides in our network expansion, successfully linking both Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah to the main line, bringing new connectivity and opportunities for the UAE.
pic.twitter.com/XTSfcVSb6E
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) October 12, 2022
October 7, 2022: Hello Abu Dhabi
The UAE rail project hit another significant milestone with the inaugural journey from the Mirfa Depot in the west to Abu Dhabi’s ICAD freight terminal in Mussafah. This marks the transition from current operations in Al Dhafra to new opportunities for moving goods across the capital and beyond. Next stop: Dubai!
Follow the journey of our first-ever train traveling from Mirfa Depot to ICAD, paving the way for improved logistics within the capital and across the Emirates.
pic.twitter.com/FdVkxC2sAd
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) October 7, 2022
September 30, 2022: Man, Oman
A major development came at the end of September when Etihad Rail and Oman Rail revealed their game-changing partnership to create an inter-GCC rail link. The 303km stretch will connect Oman and the UAE, slashing travel times between Sohar and Abu Dhabi to just 100 minutes, and between Sohar and Al Ain to 47 minutes.
This milestone will be overseen by the newly formed Oman-Etihad Rail Company, with a USD3 billion budget to get both freight and passenger services on track.
The collaborative effort will revolutionize travel and trade across the region.
pic.twitter.com/nZqZIPCGEm
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) September 30, 2022
August 26, 2022: The Little Engines That Could
Turns out, “doing the locomotion” isn’t just for pop stars—it’s for heavy-duty freight locomotives too! Etihad Rail celebrated a milestone with the arrival of its new, advanced rolling stock fleet, consisting of powerful locomotives and multi-functional wagons.
These locomotives are built to handle the extreme weather and terrain conditions of the UAE, from the scorching desert heat to coastal humidity and dust storms. The first batch of locomotives arrived via Zayed and Al Musaffah Ports, and they’re not only tough but also environmentally friendly and designed to be durable, powerful, and sleek.
There are 38 of these locomotives, set to transport 60 million tonnes of cargo by 2030. Manufactured in the USA, these beasts are joined by wagons made in China. For passenger trains, Etihad Rail has partnered with Spanish company CAF for a 1.2 billion deal to build and maintain the fleet.
pic.twitter.com/kUJmzLcZjK
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) August 18, 2022
August 5, 2022: Snapped! A Stunning Aerial View of the Rail Through the Hajar Mountains
Etihad Rail shared a breathtaking aerial view of the railway cutting through the dramatic landscape of the Hajar Mountains. This section of the network promises not only stunning scenery but also a significant engineering achievement in the UAE’s infrastructure.
As construction progresses at full speed, Etihad Rail has shared a stunning aerial shot of the tracks weaving through the iconic Hajar Mountains. The National Railway Network spans 145km, connecting Sharjah’s borders, passing through Fujairah, and reaching all the way to Ras Al Khaimah, showcasing the scale and ambition of this monumental project.
June 23, 2022: Cutting Commute Times by Up to 40%
A bold statement, but that’s the power of rail travel—no traffic lights, no intersections, and no one reversing up a slip road with their hazard lights on! With speeds of up to 200 kph and the ability to carry around 400 passengers, the new Etihad Rail passenger service promises to drastically reduce commuting times across the UAE.
By connecting 11 cities and regions, from Sila’a to Fujairah, the railway will reduce travel times by up to 40% compared to other land transport options. This will enhance the UAE’s transportation ecosystem 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 Begins on Bridge Over Sheikh Zayed Road
Exciting progress on the rail project as construction ramps up for a major bridge crossing the iconic Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) in Dubai. This bridge will allow trains to enter the Jebel Ali rail terminal, facilitating both regional and international trade.
Here’s a first look at the construction progress of the rail bridge over the E11, which will play a vital role in promoting trade throughout the region.
pic.twitter.com/45oGeR323j
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) June 22, 2022
Travel Times Between Emirates:
When asked about travel times between key cities, Ahmed Al Musawa, Executive Director of Passenger Services at Etihad Rail, shared the following:
- Abu Dhabi to Dubai: 50 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Fujairah: 100 minutes
- Dubai to Fujairah: 50 minutes
- Abu Dhabi to Ruwais: 70 minutes
Which Communities Will the Rail Serve?
The network will span from Al Sila to Fujairah, serving 11 cities, towns, and communities, including Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, and Abu Dhabi.
First Station to Open:
The first completed station will be in Fujairah, located on a 145km section of track linking Sharjah to Fujairah Port. This station will mark a key milestone, with Spain’s CAF securing the contract to supply and maintain the passenger trains. The station will be situated in Sakamkam, Fujairah City, making it the first to open for passenger services.
Finally, when can we expect to be travelling on Etihad Rail?
You’re right—there’s no official completion date for the Etihad Rail passenger services just yet. However, during the ‘Projects of the 50’ event at Expo 2020 in December 2021, key milestones were discussed. It was confirmed that passenger services will be the second phase of the project, following the successful rollout of freight services. By 2030, passenger services are projected to carry more than 36.5 million passengers annually.
That said, with the network already over 70% complete, it’s looking likely that we could see passengers onboard well ahead of the planned timeline. So, while there’s no exact launch date yet, it’s clear that Etihad Rail’s passenger services are closer than ever to becoming a reality.
