New train service would cut Dubai-Abu Dhabi journeys to under one hour

A new passenger rail service operated by Etihad Rail is due to launch this year, promising to cut journeys between Abu Dhabi and Dubai to around 50 minutes and shrink travel time from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah to about one hour and 40 minutes. Etihad Rail, the UAE’s national railway network, is transitioning from a freight-only operation to a phased passenger rollout that will connect 11 cities, run trains at speeds of up to 125 miles per hour and deploy 13 trains each capable of seating up to 400 passengers.

“The new network will serve as a ‘cornerstone of the UAE’s national transport ecosystem’,” said Azza AlSuwaidi, deputy CEO at Etihad Rail. “We have equipped the network with a next-generation fleet and advanced technologies, in partnership with leading international operators, to ensure the highest standards of quality, reliability and safety.”

Context and service details

Etihad Rail has configured the passenger offering with modern amenities aimed at competing with road travel and alleviating congestion. Each train will include ergonomic seating, contemporary interiors, wifi and individual power outlets at every seat. The operator says services will run on a precise schedule and represent an efficient alternative to congested road routes that currently take around an hour and a half by car or bus between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

• Fleet: 13 trains, each with capacity for up to 400 passengers
• Top speed: up to 125 miles per hour
• Target annual ridership: 36.5 million passengers by 2030
• Network reach: 11 cities, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah

Mohammed Alshehii, chief projects officer at Etihad Rail, said the connected locations “have been carefully selected within key locations such as Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah and the Al Hilal area in Fujairah.” The project builds on infrastructure that has largely been used for freight since the tracks became operational in 2016.

Outlook

Etihad Rail has not yet released an official opening date or put tickets on sale, but the operator is expected to commence passenger services sometime this year. The company is aiming for a substantial scale-up, with a stated ambition of carrying 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030. Etihad Rail — which is not associated with Etihad Airways — also says it will consider opportunities to expand the passenger network beyond UAE borders once the domestic service is fully established.