Quick Answer: Etihad Rail passenger tickets can be booked through the official website, mobile app, or ticket machines at stations. The first passenger route connects Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, with services starting from 30 June 2026. Ticket prices begin from AED 55 for Comfort Class and AED 120 for Premium Class.
Etihad Rail has introduced a new chapter for public transport in the UAE by opening bookings for its first passenger train service. The national railway network will allow residents and visitors to travel between emirates using rail transport, offering a new alternative to traditional road journeys.
The first Etihad Rail passenger route connects Abu Dhabi Station in Mohamed Bin Zayed City with Fujairah Station in Al Hilal City. The service marks the beginning of a phased expansion plan that will eventually connect more locations, including Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid and Al Dhafra.
What Is Etihad Rail Passenger Service?
Etihad Rail is the UAE’s national railway project designed to connect cities and regions across the country through passenger and freight rail services. The passenger network is being introduced in phases, with the first public service focusing on inter-emirate travel.
The Abu Dhabi to Fujairah route gives travellers a new option for moving between the capital and the east coast without relying only on private vehicles, taxis or buses. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it a convenient choice for residents planning trips between the two emirates.
When Does Etihad Rail Passenger Service Start?
The first Etihad Rail passenger service is scheduled to begin on 30 June 2026. During the initial launch phase, passengers can book journeys between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
The wider passenger network will expand gradually, with additional stations expected to open in different phases across the UAE.
Where Can You Book Etihad Rail Tickets?
Passengers can book Etihad Rail tickets through several official channels, making the process accessible for both residents and visitors.
Ticket vending machines available at stations
The online platforms allow passengers to search available routes, select travel dates, choose departure times, pick travel classes, enter passenger information and complete payment digitally.
How to Book Etihad Rail Tickets Step by Step
1. Visit the Etihad Rail Website or App
Start by opening the official Etihad Rail website or mobile application and selecting the ticket booking section. Passengers may need to create an account to manage bookings, receive updates and access travel details later.
2. Select Your Route
During the first phase, passengers can book trips between:
Abu Dhabi Station – Mohamed Bin Zayed City
Fujairah Station – Al Hilal City
More destinations will become available as Etihad Rail expands its passenger network.
3. Choose Your Travel Date and Time
After selecting the route, passengers can choose their preferred travel date and available departure time. Travellers are advised to book early during weekends, public holidays and peak travel periods.
4. Select Your Travel Class
Etihad Rail currently offers two passenger classes:
Comfort Class: Designed for everyday travellers and families looking for an affordable rail experience.
Premium Class: Offers a more spacious and upgraded travel environment.
How Much Do Etihad Rail Tickets Cost?
Introductory Etihad Rail fares for the Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route start from:
Travel Class | Starting Fare |
|---|---|
Comfort Class | AED 55 |
Premium Class | AED 120 |
These prices are launch fares and may change depending on future pricing updates, routes and ticket availability.
What Are the Etihad Rail Ticket Types?
Passengers can select from different ticket options depending on how much flexibility they need.
Ticket Type | Description |
|---|---|
Saver | The lowest-priced option for travellers with fixed plans. Changes and refunds are limited. |
Value | Provides additional flexibility and includes seat selection options. |
Flex | Designed for passengers who require more changes, refunds and booking flexibility. |
Value tickets cost an additional AED 10, while Flex tickets add AED 20 compared with the base fare.
Which Etihad Rail Route Is Available First?
The first operational passenger route is:
Abu Dhabi to Fujairah
Fujairah to Abu Dhabi
The route connects western and eastern parts of the UAE and provides another option for residents who regularly travel between emirates.
Future Etihad Rail Station Expansion in UAE
Etihad Rail will gradually expand passenger services across additional locations.
Date | Expected Expansion |
|---|---|
30 June 2026 | Abu Dhabi-Fujairah passenger service begins |
30 September 2026 | Dubai and Al Dhaid stations expected to open |
30 December 2026 | Al Dhafra stations expected to open |
30 March 2027 | Sharjah station expected to open |
What UAE Residents Should Know Before Booking
Before travelling on Etihad Rail, passengers should check their route, departure time, ticket category and travel requirements.
Arrive early at the station before departure.
Keep your digital ticket available on your phone.
Carry your Emirates ID if you are a UAE resident.
Tourists should carry their passport during travel.
Check booking details carefully before payment.
Etihad Rail Baggage Allowance
Passengers aged three years and above can carry up to two luggage items without additional charges.
The allowance includes:
One personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag.
One carry-on bag measuring up to 55cm x 40cm x 23cm.
Passengers should ensure their luggage does not block seats, aisles or emergency areas.
What Facilities Are Available at Etihad Rail Stations?
Etihad Rail stations are designed to provide a complete passenger experience with facilities including:
Ticket vending machines
Passenger information desks
Waiting areas
Family facilities
Prayer rooms
Restaurants and retail areas
Parking facilities
Taxi and pick-up zones
How Will Etihad Rail Change Travel in the UAE?
The introduction of passenger rail will give UAE residents more choices for inter-emirate travel. Daily commuters, families and visitors will have another transport option connecting major areas without depending entirely on road networks.
For people travelling between Abu Dhabi, Fujairah and future connected cities, Etihad Rail could become an important part of the UAE’s public transportation system.
Final Verdict: What UAE Travellers Should Know About Etihad Rail Tickets
Etihad Rail tickets provide UAE residents and visitors with access to a new passenger transport option connecting different emirates. With online booking, multiple ticket classes and future station expansions, the railway network is expected to become a key part of mobility across the UAE.
Passengers planning their first journey should book early, review ticket conditions and follow official Etihad Rail updates as new routes become available.
FAQs
How can I book Etihad Rail tickets in the UAE?
You can book Etihad Rail tickets through the official website, mobile app or ticket vending machines at passenger stations.
When does Etihad Rail passenger service start?
The first Etihad Rail passenger service starts on 30 June 2026 between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
How much are Etihad Rail tickets?
Introductory Etihad Rail fares start from AED 55 for Comfort Class and AED 120 for Premium Class.
Which Etihad Rail route opens first?
The first route connects Abu Dhabi Station in Mohamed Bin Zayed City with Fujairah Station in Al Hilal City.
Can tourists use Etihad Rail?
Yes, visitors can use Etihad Rail passenger services and should carry their passport when travelling.
