Etihad Rail passenger services will launch on June 30, ahead of a wider roll-out three months later. Antonie Robertson /The NationalEtihad Rail passenger services will launch on June 30, ahead of a wider roll-out three months later. Antonie Robertson /The NationalJourneys on landmark route between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will take 1 hour and 45 minutesThe NationalJune 23, 2026Etihad Rail is to launch the operational phase of passenger services on June 30, it was confirmed on Tuesday.The first route on the much-anticipated public transport project will run from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, with journeys taking 1 hour and 45 minutes.Train stations in Dubai and Al Dhaid are scheduled to open on September 30 as part of a wider launch of the country's largest infrastructure scheme.The Al Dhafra train station will open to the public on September 30, with Sharjah's station to begin operations on March 30.The long-awaited start date of passenger services was announced as Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, inaugurated the Mohamed bin Zayed City Passenger Train Station in Abu Dhabi.Ticket prices revealedFares on the Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route will start at Dh55 for Comfort Class and Dh120 for Premium Class.Play01:09Etihad Rail unveils first passenger station in FujairahThe passenger rail fleet comprises 13 trains, each with a capacity to carry 400 passengers. Customers will be able to book journeys and purchase tickets through a range of convenient channels, including the Etihad Rail mobile application and official website, from today.Etihad Rail said in January that the first services will connect Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah in the network's opening phase.Passengers can expect frequent trains on the Abu Dhabi to Dubai line, with the route to Fujairah bolstering tourism and access to the east coast.The wider Etihad Rail passenger network will eventually stretch across the country with 11 stations announced so far.Passenger services will be operated by Etihad Rail in partnership with Keolis, one of the world's leading passenger transport operators.Travel in styleThe UAE's new train stations will feature a wide variety of amenities, including cafes, restaurants and a number of retail outlets, including international brands. Dining options will also be served abroad the passenger trains.Updated: June 23, 2026, 8:01 AM