Etihad Rail Unveils the Locations of Its First 11 Passenger Stations

Published On: June 5, 2026

Etihad Rail Unveils the Locations of Its First 11 Passenger Stations

Where you’ll soon be able to hop on board the UAE’s first national passenger rail network

The countdown is on for the launch of Etihad Rail’s highly anticipated passenger service, and details of the network’s first stations have now been revealed.

Covering more than 900 kilometres, the passenger rail line will connect 11 cities and communities across all seven emirates, creating a faster and more convenient way to travel around the UAE.

The first stations expected to begin operations are located in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah, marking the beginning of a new era for public transport in the country.

One of the biggest reveals is the exact location of Abu Dhabi’s main passenger station. Situated in Mohammed Bin Zayed City near Dalma Mall, the station will serve as a major transport hub for residents and visitors.

Recent footage shared by Etihad Rail offered a glimpse inside the new facility, showcasing modern architecture, digital information displays, automated ticket barriers and spacious passenger areas designed to streamline travel.

The 11 confirmed Etihad Rail passenger stations

Al Dhaid, Sharjah

Located in one of Sharjah’s largest inland cities, Al Dhaid station is expected to become an important connection point for commuters travelling between Sharjah and neighbouring emirates.

Al Dhannah, Abu Dhabi

Positioned in the western region of Abu Dhabi emirate, Al Dhannah will provide improved access to one of the area’s key industrial and residential centres.

Al Faya, Abu Dhabi

Situated between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, Al Faya is already known for its logistics importance thanks to the nearby Al Faya Dry Port. The station will strengthen connectivity between major inland destinations.

Al Hilal, Fujairah

As the easternmost station on the network, Al Hilal will serve Fujairah and surrounding communities. The completed station features waiting lounges, ticketing facilities, food and beverage outlets, parking areas, taxi services and car rental options.

Al Sila, Abu Dhabi

Located near the UAE’s western border, Al Sila is expected to play a significant role in future regional rail links, including the planned GCC railway network.

Al Mirfa, Abu Dhabi

Known for its beaches and fishing heritage, Al Mirfa will benefit from easier access to the capital and other destinations across the country.

Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai

Dubai’s first Etihad Rail station will be located in Jumeirah Golf Estates along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The station is expected to integrate with Dubai’s wider public transport system, including future Metro expansions.

Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi

One of the largest towns in the Al Dhafra region, Madinat Zayed will gain a faster transport connection to Abu Dhabi and beyond.

Mezairaa, Abu Dhabi

Located within the Liwa Oasis, Mezairaa station will make it easier for travellers to explore Abu Dhabi’s famous desert landscapes and cultural attractions.

Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi

Serving as Abu Dhabi’s main passenger station, this centrally located hub will provide direct access to the capital and is among the first stations scheduled to open.

University City, Sharjah

Positioned close to Sharjah International Airport and the emirate’s educational district, University City station will offer a convenient travel option for students, residents and air travellers.

Faster journeys across the UAE

Etihad Rail is set to dramatically reduce travel times between key destinations.

Journeys between Abu Dhabi and Dubai are expected to take around 50 minutes, while travel from Dubai to Fujairah will also take approximately 50 minutes.

Passengers travelling from Abu Dhabi to Al Ruwais will be able to reach their destination in around one hour and ten minutes, while journeys from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah are expected to take roughly one hour and 40 minutes.

The standard passenger trains will operate at speeds of up to 200km/h. Meanwhile, a separate high-speed rail project currently under development aims to connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes, with trains capable of reaching speeds of 350km/h.

By 2030, Etihad Rail expects the passenger network to carry up to 36 million travellers annually, helping transform mobility across the UAE and offering a sustainable alternative to road travel.

FAQs

Etihad Rail passenger services are expected to launch later in 2026.

The first phase of the passenger network will include 11 stations across the UAE.

Dubai’s station will be located in Jumeirah Golf Estates.

Passengers will be able to travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in around 50 minutes

The trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h.

Etihad Rail Unveils the Locations of Its First 11 Passenger Stations

Where you’ll soon be able to hop on board the UAE’s first national passenger rail network