The upcoming passenger service by Etihad Rail has officially confirmed the locations of its first 11 stations, marking a major milestone ahead of its expected launch later in 2026. Spanning approximately 900km, the rail network will connect multiple cities and regions across all seven emirates, transforming how people travel across the UAE.
Among the confirmed stops, several stations will be located within the emirate of Abu Dhabi, while others are spread across Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. One of the key highlights includes the Dubai station at Jumeirah Golf Estates, strategically positioned along a major highway and close to existing metro connectivity.
In Abu Dhabi, multiple important locations have been selected, including Mohammed Bin Zayed City, a central hub near Dalma Mall, along with Al Dhannah, Al Faya, Al Sila, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, and Mezairaa in the Liwa region.
Sharjah will feature stations in Al Dhaid and University City, offering improved connectivity for students and travelers heading to nearby airport facilities. Meanwhile, Al Hilal will serve as the easternmost station, connecting passengers to Fujairah city and surrounding areas.
The passenger rail system is expected to significantly reduce travel times across the UAE. Journeys between Abu Dhabi and Dubai or Dubai and Fujairah are projected to take around 50 minutes, while future high-speed upgrades could cut this to just 30 minutes. Additional routes, such as Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, are expected to take approximately one hour and 40 minutes.
Designed with modern infrastructure, stations will feature digital ticketing systems, platform access controls, and passenger-friendly amenities. The service will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h, with long-term plans targeting up to 350 km/h for high-speed routes.
By 2030, Etihad Rail aims to serve up to 36 million passengers annually. Authorities, including Roads and Transport Authority, are also working to ensure seamless last-mile connectivity through buses and taxis linked to station hubs.
This ambitious project is set to redefine transportation in the UAE, offering faster, more efficient, and environmentally friendly travel options for residents and visitors alike.