All Aboard: The Future of Etihad Rail Passenger Service

Etihad Rail is poised to revolutionize transportation in the UAE by seamlessly connecting all seven emirates, and in the near future, it will extend its reach to Oman. After the inaugural passenger journey on the tracks earlier this year in January, anticipation is building for the full rollout of this service. Currently, the existing tracks are dedicated to freight transportation, but plans for passenger services are well underway. As we await this new mode of travel, it promises to make journeys between the Emirates not only faster but also more environmentally friendly and convenient. Once operational, it is projected that Etihad Rail will accommodate approximately 36.5 million passengers annually. Let’s delve into everything we know about the upcoming Etihad Rail passenger train.

Key Details About the Etihad Rail Passenger Train

Where Will the First Etihad Rail Passenger Train Station Be Constructed?

The first passenger train station is set to be established in Sakamkam, Fujairah, strategically located in the heart of Fujairah city. Additionally, in March 2024, it was announced that a second station will be constructed near the University City of Sharjah, expanding access for travelers.

Who Is Designing the New Etihad Rail Passenger Train?

The innovative design of the Etihad Rail passenger train comes from the esteemed Spanish company CAF, which will also be responsible for manufacturing, supplying, and maintaining the trains according to rigorous European standards. Each train will feature over 400 seats and will have a maximum speed of 200 km/h. Passengers will have the option to choose from various seating classes, including first class, business class, and economy. A sneak peek of the luxurious cabins has been shared on social media; however, Etihad Rail has clarified that these are prototypes and may undergo changes before the official launch of the passenger service.

What Routes Will Etihad Rail Cover?

The extensive 900 km network of the Etihad Rail passenger train will connect 11 cities across the seven emirates of the UAE. The route will encompass locations from Al Sila to Fujairah, including Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, and Abu Dhabi. Notably, the travel time from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, as well as Dubai to Fujairah, is expected to be reduced to just 50 minutes. Additionally, the journey from Abu Dhabi to Al Ruwais will take around one hour and ten minutes, while the trip from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will take approximately one hour and 40 minutes. The passenger service will provide efficient travel options, allowing commuters to plan their journeys and book tickets with ease, reducing commute times by 30 to 40 percent compared to other means of transportation.

When Will the Etihad Rail Passenger Trains Begin Operations?

As of now, officials from the national rail company have been tight-lipped regarding the exact date for the commencement of passenger services, keeping eager travelers in suspense.

What About the Oman Etihad Rail?

The railway network is set to link Sohar in Oman to Abu Dhabi in the UAE, providing a direct connection via Sohar Port to the UAE National Rail Network. This initiative marks a significant advancement in enhancing connectivity between the UAE and Oman.

How Long Will It Take to Travel from the UAE to Oman on This Train?

The passenger trains will operate at a maximum speed of 200 km/h, which, while impressive, is not on par with some of the high-speed trains found in countries like Germany and China. A fun fact for your next trivia night: the fastest public train in the world is the Shanghai Maglev in China, capable of reaching speeds of 460 km/h. However, the Oman-Etihad Rail will substantially reduce travel times, with estimates suggesting a journey from Abu Dhabi to Sohar will take about one hour and 40 minutes, and just 47 minutes from Al Ain to Sohar.

What Amenities Will the Etihad Rail Passenger Train Offer?

The Etihad Rail passenger train is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. Passengers can expect a range of amenities, including entertainment options, charging stations, food and beverage services, and generous legroom, all complemented by an advanced air-conditioning system. To enhance the travel experience, Etihad Rail has partnered with the renowned Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale, aiming to create an ambiance reminiscent of the sophisticated Orient Express.

What Is Etihad Freight Rail?

The Freight Rail service is already operational, facilitating the transport of goods and materials across the Emirates and alleviating the burden on the UAE’s road networks. The passenger service will utilize the same infrastructure as the freight trains. Currently, the fleet includes 38 locomotives and over 1,000 wagons, capable of transporting a diverse range of goods. Recently, Etihad Rail shared videos featuring Engineer Khuloud, who demonstrated the processes involved in collecting, loading, and transporting freight along the new rail line. In her second episode, Engineer Khuloud showcased how goods are loaded onto trains at Etihad Rail terminals, ensuring timely arrivals while prioritizing safety and security measures.

How Will Etihad Rail Contribute to Sustainability?

According to Etihad Rail, the National Rail Network is projected to reduce road transport CO2 emissions by 21 percent by 2050. Each train trip is expected to remove 300 trucks from the roads, significantly decreasing emissions and alleviating traffic congestion across the UAE.

For more information, visit etihadrail.ae.

In Other Dubai News

• How to Spot Dubai’s New Silent Traffic Radars: They’re monitoring more than just speeding.
• The World’s Most Powerful Passport List Is Out, and the UAE Is Among the Top: How does your passport compare?
• Dubai Buses Will Feature Smart Passenger Counting Systems: Commuters caught evading fares may face a fine of Dh200.