UAE's passenger train tickets are now live

The UAE is preparing to welcome its first-ever inter-emirate passenger train service as Etihad Rail opens bookings for journeys between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, ahead of the official launch on June 30.The route marks the beginning of the country's first inter-emirate passenger train service, a project that has been years in the making and is expected to gradually expand to connect all emirates by 2027. Dubai’s passenger station is scheduled to become operational on September 30, followed by Sharjah’s station in March 2027.The Abu Dhabi station, located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, was recently inaugurated by Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed, setting the stage for passenger operations. Fujairah’s station in Al Hilal City will serve as the eastern terminal for this initial phase.

The National Railway Network launching on 30 September 2026 strengthens the UAE transport network, bringing destinations closer and reflecting national capabilities to deliver major infrastructure projects at pace and support economic growth across key sectors. pic.twitter.com/bJxJPWlj6R

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) June 23, 2026

Timings, frequency and daily operationsIn its launch phase, the service will operate three direct trips in each direction every day. Trains departing from Abu Dhabi will leave at 8:19am, 1:53pm and 6:39pm, while services from Fujairah will run at 5:34am, 10:59am and 5:28pm.Also Read: UAE to launch first passenger train on June 30Both stations will remain operational from 5am to 11pm daily, giving passengers flexibility to plan journeys across the day. The early schedule reflects the system’s focus on commuter convenience while testing demand on the new corridor.Ticket booking, fares and discountsBookings are now live through Etihad Rail’s official website and mobile application, with passengers required to select stations, travel dates, departure times, class and ticket type before completing payment.A digital ticket is issued upon confirmation, while physical ticket vending machines will also be available at stations for added convenience.To mark the launch, Etihad Rail has introduced promotional fares that significantly reduce standard prices. A Comfort Class ticket, which is ordinarily priced at Dh109, is currently available for Dh55, while Premium Class tickets have been reduced from Dh239 to Dh120.The discounted fares have generated strong interest, with some launch-day departures already showing limited availability.Ticket types and passenger flexibilityPassengers will be able to choose from three ticket categories depending on their travel needs. Saver tickets offer the lowest prices but do not allow changes or refunds, making them suitable for fixed travel plans.Value tickets provide moderate flexibility, allowing passengers to modify bookings before departure.Also Read: UAE visa expiring soon? Here's how to check your status onlineAt the highest tier, Flex tickets offer maximum convenience, including the ability to change, refund under certain conditions, and even transfer tickets to another passenger before travel.Stations, access and passenger facilitiesThe Abu Dhabi and Fujairah stations have been designed to provide full-service passenger facilities, including waiting lounges, ticketing counters, information desks, prayer rooms, retail outlets, first-aid rooms and parking spaces.To improve accessibility, Etihad Rail has also introduced a shuttle bus service in Abu Dhabi priced at Dh10 per trip, connecting the station with key locations such as ADNOC Headquarters, ADNEC Centre and Reem Mall. These links are intended to integrate the rail system with major commercial and residential hubs in the capital.Onboard experience, luggage and capacityEach train in the passenger fleet is designed to accommodate up to 400 passengers, with a total of 13 trains forming the initial operational fleet. Travellers are guaranteed seating, and onboard services include Wi-Fi connectivity to enhance the journey experience.Passengers are allowed to carry one personal item, such as a handbag or laptop bag, along with one carry-on bag within prescribed size limits. All luggage must be properly labelled and stored safely to ensure it does not obstruct aisles or emergency exits.