The UAE Railway Programme was launched as part of the Projects of the 50 in December 2021. In less than 5 years, the Introductory Operational Phase between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah is beginning, ahead of the official launch of Etihad Rail Passenger Services on 30 September 2026.

The very first trip from Fujairah will begin at 5:34am sharp, just a minute after sunrise in the UAE. Every seat on the train has already been booked as many residents wanted to be part of the maiden journey of UAE's first ever passenger rail network. Each train can carry up to 400 passengers, and three trains will be departing Fujairah today — morning, afternoon and evening.

While most of the UAE is still asleep, a new chapter is about to begin in the history of the country’s public transport. The Khaleej Times’ team has arrived in Fujairah, where the first Etihad Rail passenger journey will begin in less than two hours. Stay with us for minute-by-minute updates as the journey to Abu Dhabi unfolds.

Etihad rail