Etihad Rail on Track to Launch Passenger Services by 2026

Abu Dhabi, UAE – October 1, 2025: The second edition of the Global Rail 2025 exhibition and conference opened on Tuesday at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) under the theme “Shaping the Future of Transport and Strengthening Global Connectivity.” Running until October 2, the event is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, and under the supervision of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Martyrs’ Affairs, and Chairman of Etihad Rail.

Abu Dhabi: A Global Hub for Sustainable Transport Innovation

Hosting Global Rail 2025 reflects Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a global hub for sustainable transport and innovation. The event underscores the UAE’s commitment to driving international dialogue and embracing future-focused solutions to address the challenges of modern transport and infrastructure.

This year’s edition welcomes over 24 ministers and official delegations, alongside 200+ exhibitors across 14 sectors, including 70 first-time participants. More than 60 CEOs of leading companies and institutions are in attendance, collectively representing firms with annual revenues exceeding USD 140 billion. The exhibition is expected to draw 20,000 visitors from 100 nationalities over three days.

Participants will explore the latest transport innovations, review multi-billion-dollar projects, and participate in specialized workshops and panel discussions, offering unique opportunities for knowledge-sharing and investment.

Conferences and Key Discussions

The program features both a strategic and a technical conference.

The strategic conference will host 55+ panel discussions covering high-speed rail, sustainable financing, governance and policy, network standardization, artificial intelligence, automation, and future city planning.

The technical conference will focus on engineering, digitalization, equipment, asset management, and operational innovation, with contributions from academics, global experts, and research institutions.

Passenger Services to Begin in 2026

In a statement during the event, Etihad Rail confirmed its passenger services are scheduled to launch in 2026, delivering on the UAE’s ambition to provide a safe, efficient, and fully integrated railway network.

The passenger network will connect cities and communities nationwide while meeting the highest international standards. Azza Al Suwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Passenger Services, highlighted that the company is building strategic partnerships with transport providers, municipalities, and technology platforms to ensure seamless travel, including integrated first- and last-mile solutions.

Shortening Distances Between Emirates

Al Suwaidi noted that Etihad Rail will deliver a world-class passenger experience, emphasizing comfort, reliability, and affordability. A digital-first ticketing system will support efficient travel, while fully separated tracks will enhance safety by eliminating the risk of collisions.

Expected travel times include:

• 57 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Dubai
• 105 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah
• 70 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Ruwais

Trains will feature dedicated spaces for working, reading, or relaxing, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

High Capacity and Nationwide Connectivity

Each train is designed to accommodate up to 400 passengers, with multiple daily trips serving individuals, families, and groups.

Al Suwaidi emphasized the importance of station development, noting that stations will play a central role in providing an accessible, integrated, and safe network. The service will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east, passing through Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai.

With its passenger services set to launch in 2026, Etihad Rail is positioned to transform mobility in the UAE, shorten distances between Emirates, and reinforce Abu Dhabi’s leadership in sustainable transport innovation.