On October 8, 2025, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi took part in a test journey.
This week saw a significant advancement in Etihad Rail’s initiative for nationwide travel, as UAE Minister of Foreign Trade Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi joined CEO Shadi Malak and other officials on a test journey from Al Qudra in Dubai to Fujairah.
This excursion represented the first comprehensive test of the passenger route, which is slated for commercial launch in 2026.
Once in service, Etihad Rail will link 11 cities, stretching from Al Sila on the western border to Fujairah on the eastern coast, thereby enhancing connectivity between major locations.
Each train is designed to accommodate up to 400 passengers, with an estimated annual ridership of 36.5 million anticipated by 2030.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi emphasized that the new passenger service would play “a vital role” in enhancing the UAE’s transportation infrastructure.
“This significant infrastructure endeavor is not only facilitating the transport of goods and materials between industrial areas, ports, and transportation centers but will also offer passenger services to improve connectivity for our citizens, thus fostering sustainable economic growth and minimizing harmful emissions,” he stated.
Ahead of the service’s launch, Etihad Rail recently established a joint venture with French transportation operator Keolis, known for its management of the Dubai Metro. This collaboration will focus on passenger service operations, safety protocols, maintenance, and overall customer experience, ensuring international best practices are implemented across the network.
The passenger service builds upon Etihad Rail’s freight network, which spans 900 kilometers from Ghuwaifat at the Saudi border to Fujairah, linking significant ports including Khalifa, Jebel Ali, and Ruwais. Currently, this system handles heavy cargo like sulphur, aggregates, and construction materials, with projections indicating it will transport over 60 million tonnes annually by 2030.
During the Global Rail 2025 exhibition held in Abu Dhabi earlier this month, Azza Al Suwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Passenger Services, noted that preparations were in full swing to ensure “smooth and connected travel experiences” for both residents and tourists.
She mentioned that the company is collaborating with local transportation providers and municipalities to deliver integrated first- and last-mile transportation solutions.
Trains will operate on completely separate tracks to enhance safety and reliability.
Expected travel durations include 57 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, 70 minutes to Ruwais, and 105 minutes to Fujairah. Passengers can enjoy designated areas for work, reading, and relaxation, while the stations are being designed as accessible, interconnected hubs.
Etihad Rail anticipates that the network will contribute approximately Dhs145 billion to the UAE’s GDP over the next 50 years.