Residents of the UAE are on track to experience a new era of transportation, as Etihad Rail prepares to launch its passenger service by 2026.
A recent trial journey undertaken by members of the National Experts Programme (NEP) has provided a glimpse into what future travel across the Emirates may soon look like — efficient, comfortable, and scenic.
Sarah Luqman, a destination marketer and NEP participant, shared her experience on social media after travelling from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah via the new railway.
In her video, she confirmed that the journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai took only 25 minutes — a trip that typically takes around 90 minutes by car. The entire journey to Fujairah, she said, took approximately an hour and a half from Dubai.
The NEP, now in its fourth cohort, aims to empower UAE-based specialists to drive the country’s transformation in emerging sectors. As part of the programme, the group boarded the train to attend a module in Fujairah.
Luqman described the journey as one of “seamless comfort, world-class service, and breathtaking views through the heart of the UAE.” Etihad Rail’s passenger service has not yet opened to the public, but development is progressing swiftly.
A high-level meeting last week between Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, and an Etihad Rail delegation confirmed that the national railway is on schedule to commence passenger operations in 2026.
In her video, Luqman offered a close-up look at the train’s interior, showcasing light grey seats arranged in clusters of four with a central table — presumed to be economy class.
Above the seats, luggage racks are available for passenger convenience. Onboard screens provide real-time journey updates, including train speed, location, outside temperature, and estimated time of arrival.
While it remains unclear whether the trains will feature onboard dining options, footage showed areas bearing the Adnoc Oasis branding — raising speculation about the availability of signature snacks and drinks from the popular convenience store.
Etihad Rail has previously revealed that each passenger train will accommodate approximately 400 passengers across business and economy classes.
The focus, however, is not solely on speed and capacity. Scenery is expected to be a major highlight of the journey.
According to engineer Kholoud Al Mazrouei, travellers will enjoy unique views of the UAE’s diverse landscapes, including desert dunes, Almaha forests, and the lush terrains of Fujairah — views that are rarely accessible by road.
Infrastructure developments are also in full swing. Last month, Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), in coordination with Etihad Rail, completed a three-lane flyover on Al Yalayis Street.
The project aims to ensure the safe and uninterrupted movement of trains while improving vehicle traffic flow by separating rail and road traffic.
With its blend of cutting-edge technology, comfort, and scenic beauty, Etihad Rail’s upcoming passenger service is set to transform daily commuting and tourism across the UAE — marking a significant milestone in the nation’s vision for sustainable and connected transport infrastructure.