Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai

Dubai, Aug 4: In a landmark moment for the UAE’s transport sector, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, travelled aboard the Etihad Rail passenger train from Dubai to Fujairah. The symbolic ride marks a major phase in the national railway project, paving the way for commercial passenger services expected to commence in 2026.

Sheikh Mohammed shared photos of the journey on social media, calling it a “memorable ride”. He was received by a delegation from Etihad Rail led by chief business support officer Saeed AlAhbabi and other senior officials.

During the trip, Sheikh Mohammed was briefed on the progress of construction and key project milestones. Describing Etihad Rail as a “vital economic artery,” he stated, “It is a key pillar in our vision to build an integrated transport network that enhances the UAE’s position as a global logistics hub and facilitates the movement of people and goods.”

He further added that the project embodies the spirit of the Union and contributes to sustainability, economic integration, and improved quality of life across the emirates.

A national network connecting the emirates

Etihad Rail is a 1,200 km-long national railway project designed to connect key regions across the UAE and eventually extend to neighbouring countries. With an estimated investment of AED 40 billion (approximately USD 11 billion), the network will carry both freight and passengers across strategic locations.

The network will span from Ghuweifat on the Saudi border to Fujairah on the eastern coast, with connections to Oman through Al Ain as part of the Hafeet Rail project. Major cities and regions served include:

• Abu Dhabi

• Dubai

• Sharjah

• Ras Al Khaimah

• Fujairah

• Al Ain

• Ruwais

• Al Mirfa

• Al Dhaid

• Ghuweifat

• Sohar (Oman)

The project is being executed in two phases. Phase one, inaugurated in 2016, is freight-focused and currently facilitates the transport of granulated sulphur from Al Dhafra to Ruwais. Phase two, launched in 2020, expands freight operations and adds the passenger rail segment, including a key freight link between Khalifa Port and inland logistics hubs.

Passenger service to launch by 2026

The Etihad Rail passenger service is scheduled to begin operations in 2026. It will stretch approximately 900 km and connect 11 key cities and regions across all seven emirates:

• Al Sila

• Ghuweifat

• Ruwais

• Al Mirfa

• Abu Dhabi

• Al Dhaid

• Dubai

• Sharjah

• Ras Al Khaimah

• Fujairah

• Al Ain

The trains will run at speeds of up to 200 km/h and initially operate through major stations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. Each train will accommodate up to 400 passengers, with ridership expected to reach 36.5 million annually by 2030.

Designed with passenger comfort and sustainability in mind, the service will offer a green, efficient alternative to road and air travel, aligning with the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy.

The passenger rail is also expected to ease daily mobility, promote domestic tourism, foster economic development, and strengthen social ties between emirates.

Leadership and vision

Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, chairman of Etihad Rail, praised Sheikh Mohammed’s involvement in the project.

“We had the honour of hosting His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum aboard the train journey between Dubai and Fujairah. This reflects the unwavering commitment of our leadership to national projects that drive the UAE’s progress,” he said.

Sheikh Theyab noted that Sheikh Mohammed has played a crucial role in supporting the railway’s development — from its inclusion in the ‘Projects of the 50’ initiative in 2021 to the launch of the freight network in 2023.

“Etihad Rail is not just a transport project; it is a foundation for a sustainable and connected future,” he added.

A hands-on leadership approach

Sheikh Mohammed’s visit to Etihad Rail is part of his continued efforts to stay directly connected with the country’s development. Just last week, he made an unannounced visit to a Dubai Tram station, interacting with passengers and assessing services firsthand. A similar visit was made in 2023 when he quietly rode the Dubai Metro.

These visits underscore Sheikh Mohammed’s practical, on-the-ground leadership style and reflect his dedication to enhancing public infrastructure and services in line with national aspirations.

The Etihad Rail project, once fully operational, is expected to become a cornerstone of the UAE’s transport ecosystem — supporting its economic goals, reducing emissions, and uniting the country’s diverse regions through safe, modern, and efficient rail connectivity.