Etihad Rail has officially launched passenger services between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, marking a major expansion of the UAE’s national passenger rail network and creating a new direct rail connection between the two emirates.
The service began on September 30, 2026, connecting Dubai’s Al Yalayis Station in Jumeirah Golf Estates with Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi. The journey takes approximately 57 minutes, providing passengers with an additional option for travelling between the UAE’s two largest cities.
Etihad Rail is operating 10 daily services between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, while six daily services continue to connect Abu Dhabi with Fujairah. The trains can reach speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour and accommodate up to 400 passengers.
Dubai’s Al Yalayis Station is integrated with the emirate’s wider public transport network. A dedicated pedestrian bridge connects the station with Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, while integration with Dubai’s Nol system allows passengers to connect rail journeys with Metro, tram and bus services using a single QR code.
Introductory fares for the Dubai–Abu Dhabi route start at AED 39 for Comfort Class and AED 109 for Premium Class. Tickets can be purchased through Etihad Rail’s mobile application, website and station ticket machines.
The launch marks another major step in the UAE’s national railway programme, with additional stations and routes scheduled to open progressively across the country. The expanding network is designed to improve connectivity between communities, business centres and major destinations while providing residents and visitors with more integrated mobility options.
