The new train connects Dubai and Abu Dhabi in under an hour
Get ready to swap highway traffic for high-speed thrills, because the UAE’s first intercity passenger train is on track to launch in 2026, and it’s promising to make your Dubai–Abu Dhabi commute faster, greener, and way more fun.
Yes, you heard right. In just under 60 minutes, you’ll be zipping across the desert from one iconic city to the next, no petrol stops, no tailgaters, no endless rows of brake lights.
Just you, a comfy seat, sleek design, and panoramic views of the UAE’s ever-changing landscape.
This is a game-changer for how we move around the Emirates. Etihad Rail’s passenger service marks a bold step in the UAE’s push to modernise its transport network while keeping sustainability on track (literally).
With growing concerns about road congestion and environmental impact, this high-speed rail comes as a breath of fresh, eco-friendly air.
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What can passengers expect?
Etihad Rail was honoured to host His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, aboard the passenger train journey between the emirates of Dubai and Fujairah, with passenger services set to commence operations… pic.twitter.com/H8FMISJiyo
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) August 2, 2025
Imagine stepping into a world-class station, boarding a futuristic train with cutting-edge tech, and arriving in the next city before your playlist ends.
Whether you’re commuting for work, exploring new destinations, or just avoiding that weekend highway crawl, the new rail line has your back.
Think plush seating, onboard WiFi, family-friendly facilities, and travel that feels more like a smooth glide than a commute.
Etihad Rail is part of a broader vision to link cities across the UAE, and eventually, the entire Gulf region, with a state-of-the-art railway system.
Once fully operational, the passenger train will connect 11 cities and areas across the country, creating a network that’s efficient, sustainable, and, let’s face it, pretty cool.
So whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend adventurer, or someone who just really hates traffic, 2026 can’t come soon enough. Etihad Rail isn’t just building tracks, it’s laying the foundation for a new era of UAE travel.
Stay tuned, stay seated, and get ready to ride the rails into the future.
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