New train route will initially connect Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, with Dubai and Sharjah stations scheduled to join the network over the next year……
The United Arab Emirates is preparing to usher in a new era of public transportation with the launch of its first passenger rail service later this month, marking a major milestone in the country’s efforts to build an integrated national transport network.
The development follows the inauguration of Abu Dhabi’s passenger rail station by Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as authorities move closer to rolling out commercial rail operations for travelers across the federation.
According to state news agency WAM, the passenger service will begin with an introductory phase linking Abu Dhabi and Fujairah from June 30. The route is expected to serve as the foundation of a wider rail network that will eventually connect four of the UAE’s seven emirates.
Ticket prices have been set at 55 dirhams for standard-class travel and 120 dirhams for premium-class passengers.
As part of the expansion plan, Dubai’s station is scheduled to open on September 30, while the main station in Sharjah is expected to commence operations in March 2027.
Officials said studies are also being planned to assess the feasibility of extending the railway system to additional emirates, further strengthening connectivity across the country.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Sheikh Khaled described the railway project as a strategic investment in the UAE’s future, noting that it would enhance mobility, support economic growth and create new opportunities in sectors such as tourism, trade and urban development.
He said the network reflects the country’s vision of a modern and fully integrated transportation system capable of efficiently moving both people and goods between emirates.
The passenger fleet will consist of 13 trains, each capable of carrying up to 400 passengers, providing a significant boost to domestic travel options.
Authorities also announced that ticket bookings would become available from Tuesday ahead of the official launch.
The railway initiative represents a significant step forward after earlier ambitions to introduce a Hyperloop connection between Abu Dhabi and Dubai failed to materialise despite initial announcements nearly a decade ago.
Beyond the UAE, rail connectivity remains a key objective across the Gulf region. For years, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states have discussed plans to establish an interconnected railway system linking the six-member bloc, although progress has been slower than anticipated.
Momentum, however, appears to be building. In December, Saudi Arabia and Qatar signed an agreement to develop a high-speed rail link connecting Gulf capitals. Meanwhile, construction is continuing on the $3 billion rail project that will connect Abu Dhabi with Oman’s Sohar Port, a project officials said is already about 40 per cent complete.
With the launch of passenger services now imminent, the UAE is positioning itself at the forefront of regional rail development, bringing the long-envisioned goal of modern inter-emirate rail travel closer to reality.
