Passenger train bookings in the UAE have seen strong demand since tickets became available through the Etihad Rail app and the dedicated booking website. According to the company, 5,000 passengers completed their bookings within only two days.
The strong response comes ahead of the pilot launch of the first passenger train service between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, scheduled for next Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The launch marks a new step in the development of rail transport in the UAE.
At the same time, the Etihad Rail app topped the list of the most downloaded free apps in the UAE, reflecting public interest in trying the new train service and exploring trip details, ticket categories and available travel options.
Abu Dhabi–Fujairah Train Ticket Prices
Etihad Rail has announced introductory fares for the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route, starting from AED 55 in Comfort Class and AED 120 in Premium Class.
The company is offering several ticket categories, giving passengers different levels of flexibility and service options. This allows each traveller to choose the ticket that best suits their journey and personal needs.
Pilot Operation and a New Step in Transport
During a media briefing held at the Mohamed bin Zayed City station in Abu Dhabi, Etihad Rail said the number of bookings recorded in the first two days reflects strong interest in the passenger train service before the start of pilot operations between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
The company noted that, in less than five years since the UAE announced its vision for the passenger rail project as part of the “Projects of the 50”, the project has moved from a national vision into a real service that the public can now use. Passengers are now able to plan, book and manage their journeys in advance through smooth digital channels.
Azza Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Operations at Etihad Rail, said the national railway network has made clear progress over the past years, adding that customers can now use the app to buy tickets and take part in the passenger train experience.
Athra Al Mansoori, Executive Director of Commercial at Etihad Rail Passenger Services, said the company was keen to provide options that suit different customers, whether they are looking for the best fare, greater travel flexibility, or a higher level of comfort during the journey.
Comfort and Premium Class Services
Comfort Class offers a modern travel experience that includes guaranteed seating, free Wi-Fi, charging ports at every seat and space for luggage.
Premium Class provides passengers with an upgraded level of comfort, including wider reclining seats, more legroom and complimentary refreshments during the journey.
Route Expansion in September
After the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service begins on June 30, 2026, Etihad Rail plans to expand passenger train routes to include the main Abu Dhabi–Dubai–Al Dhaid–Fujairah line from September 30, 2026.
Stations in Al Dhafra and Sharjah are also expected to open at later stages, as part of a gradual plan to expand the passenger rail network and connect more areas across the UAE.
Train Speed and Journey Times
The passenger train has a maximum speed of 200 kilometres per hour, while each train will have a capacity of 400 passengers once the network is fully operational.
The full fleet is expected to reach an annual capacity of 10 million passengers when the entire network is in operation.
According to the announced journey times, the trip between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will take 105 minutes. The journey from Abu Dhabi to Dubai will take 57 minutes, while the trip from Dubai to Fujairah will take 69 minutes.
The passenger train network will be operated by Etihad Rail Passenger Services, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis. The partnership combines international experience in operating rail networks with an understanding of the transport sector in the UAE.
