The Etihad Rail passenger network is moving closer to launch, with the first 11 station locations across the UAE now confirmed as the country prepares for its first national rail service.
Spanning around 900km, the Etihad Rail passenger system will connect key cities and regions across all seven emirates, offering a major shift in how residents travel between Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah.
The service is expected to begin later this year, with the first operational stations already identified in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah.
Etihad Rail UAE Stations Across 11 Cities
The initial Etihad Rail network will include 11 passenger stations spread across the UAE, with the majority located in Abu Dhabi.
The system is designed to improve connectivity between major urban centres and regional towns, reducing travel time and easing road congestion.
The confirmed station list includes locations across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah.
Abu Dhabi Stations Form the Core of the Network
Several key stations will be located in Abu Dhabi, forming the largest share of the network.
Mohammed bin Zayed City Station
Located near Dalma Mall, Mohammed bin Zayed City will be one of the first operational stations.
It is centrally positioned and expected to serve as a major commuter hub for Abu Dhabi city residents.
Al Faya Station
Al Faya sits between Abu Dhabi city and Al Ain and is home to major logistics infrastructure, including a dry port operated by AD Ports Group.
It is expected to support both passenger movement and regional connectivity.
Al Dhannah Station
Around 240 km from Abu Dhabi city, Al Dhannah is one of the emirate’s major regional centres.
The station will strengthen access to the western region and support long-distance travel.
Al Mirfa Station
Al Mirfa is a coastal town known for its beaches and fishing community.
The station will improve access to Abu Dhabi’s western coastline and nearby communities.
Al Sila Station
Al Sila will serve as the westernmost station on the Etihad Rail map.
It is also positioned as a strategic future link for wider GCC rail connectivity.
Madinat Zayed Station
Madinat Zayed is one of the largest towns in the Al Dhafra region.
The station will improve transport access for residents in the southwestern part of Abu Dhabi.
Mezairaa Station
Located in the Liwa Oasis, Mezairaa will connect passengers to one of the UAE’s most scenic desert regions.
The station will improve tourism access to the desert landscape.
Dubai and Sharjah Stations Included
Jumeirah Golf Estates Station (Dubai)
This will be one of Dubai’s key Etihad Rail stations.
Located along Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, it sits within a major residential and lifestyle community.
It is expected to connect with Dubai’s metro network in the future, improving citywide access.
University City Station (Sharjah)
University City in Sharjah will serve the emirate’s education district.
Its location near Sharjah International Airport will also improve access for air travellers and students.
Al Dhaid Station (Sharjah)
Al Dhaid is one of Sharjah’s largest inland cities.
The station will serve commuters travelling between Sharjah and Dubai, improving regional connectivity.
Fujairah Station Already Completed
Al Hilal Station (Fujairah)
Al Hilal is the easternmost station in the Etihad Rail passenger network.
It is the first completed station and includes passenger facilities such as ticket machines, waiting areas, food outlets, and transport connections.
The station will link Fujairah city with the wider national rail network.
Etihad Rail to Transform UAE Travel
Once operational, Etihad Rail is expected to significantly reduce travel times between emirates.
Journeys between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as well as Dubai and Fujairah, are expected to take around 50 minutes.
Future high-speed rail development could reduce this further to around 30 minutes.
The network will also integrate with local transport systems, including Dubai’s metro and bus services, to support last-mile connectivity.
A Major Shift in UAE Transport
The passenger rail service is designed to carry millions of passengers annually, supporting both daily commuters and long-distance travellers.
With speeds of up to 200 km/h planned for the initial phase, Etihad Rail marks one of the most significant transport upgrades in the country’s history.
The first 11 stations represent the foundation of a nationwide network that is set to reshape travel across the UAE.
Cover Image: etihadrail/Website
