Etihad Rail sparks high hopes for UAE’s inter-emirate commuters

MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)

Daily commutes, weekend plans, and inter-emirate travel are set for a dramatic shift as the UAE edges closer to the launch of its first national passenger railway. Residents are looking forward to faster, more affordable, and hassle-free commutes across the Emirates. 

Excitement grew after His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, boarded an Etihad Rail passenger train on a journey between Dubai and Fujairah earlier this week to review the progress on the infrastructure project, set to begin operations in 2026.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid described the rail as “a vital economic artery that supports the UAE’s journey to the future”. 

“It is a key pillar in our vision to build an integrated transport network that strengthens the UAE’s position as a leading logistics hub, while facilitating the movement of people and goods,” His Highness added. 

Etihad Rail’s passenger network will span 11 cities and regions across the country from Abu Dhabi’s Al Sila to Fujairah, connecting major urban hubs and communities.

“For someone like me who lives in Sharjah and works in Abu Dhabi, the idea of cutting down my commute from over two hours to just over an hour is incredible,” Faisal Rahman, an accountant at a logistics firm, told Aletihad. 

“I currently leave home before sunrise and often get home after dark. This rail service could give me my evenings back and a healthier work-life balance.”

Bedour Mossa, a PR executive who frequently travels from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, anticipates that Etihad Rail will ease the mental and physical strain associated with regular inter-emirate commutes.

“The introduction of Etihad Rail feels like a breath of fresh air,” she told Aletihad. “I can already see how it would transform the way I move between emirates — not just faster and easier, but more productive.”

“Instead of driving or being stuck in traffic, I’d be able to prepare for a client pitch, send out press releases, or simply recharge before a big event. That kind of flexibility isn’t just convenient — it’s game-changing,” Mossa said. 

She also noted that the rail would unlock more opportunities for spontaneous leisure travel. 

“Abu Dhabi has amazing beaches, concerts, and cultural experiences I’d love to enjoy more often. Right now, the long drive makes me second-guess it. With the rail, I wouldn’t think twice.”

Hiba, a nurse who travels from Al Ain to Dubai several times a week, expects the new rail to reduce both her travel costs and commute time. 

“Between fuel, car maintenance, and tolls, I easily spend over Dh1,500 a month just getting to work,” she told Aletihad. “Etihad Rail could cut that down dramatically and make my commute much less stressful.”

Mina Kiwan, Director of Media Relations at a PR agency in Dubai, is also confident the rail line will lead to major savings in his monthly commuting costs. 

“I commute daily between Dubai and Abu Dhabi for work, which takes up a significant portion of my time, and I am confident that Etihad Rail’s passenger train will save me a considerable amount of time and money,” he told Aletihad. 

“In particular, having stations across Abu Dhabi — such as at Saadiyat Cultural District, Yas Island, and even in downtown Abu Dhabi — would make a substantial difference for daily commuters like me.”

Tia Paul, a media professional who lives in a remote Dubai community and works in Abu Dhabi, said the project could be “life-changing.”

“Right now, I leave home an hour early daily and drive at maximum speed to reach work, and repeat the same routine on the way back,” Paul told Aletihad.

“With a station nearby, commuting would become stress-free. I could check my phone (without breaking the law), complete pending tasks, and easily save at least Dh1,000 a month on fuel.”

Etihad Rail’s passenger trains are expected to operate at speeds of up to 200kmph, with each train capable of carrying 400 passengers. By 2030, annual ridership is projected to reach 36.5 million.