Today's Edition
SAMIHAH ZAMAN (ABU DHABI)
It’s been nearly three months since Etihad Rail launched the UAE’s first passenger railway services, but the experience continues to be a novelty that has residents and visitors are queueing up.
The majority of trips along the Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route are fully booked, and demand is only expected to grow further when the next two stations open their doors later this month.
The historic service began operations on June 30, linking the capital’s Mohamed Bin Zayed City station to the Fujairah station, located in Al Hilal area.
For most travellers, the adventure begins with a seamless booking experience through the Etihad Rail app or website, and the rail provider has previously said passengers book their trips 12 days in advance, on average. However, ticketing machines are also available at the stations to assist those looking for a last-minute trip.
The introductory promotional fares – ranging from Dh55 for Comfort Class to Dh120 for Premium Class – have kept accessibility high, with even Comfort Class travellers treated to onboard refreshments that include water, gourmet chocolate, a choice of beverages, and even sandwiches and confectionery.
The stations themselves are fully equipped with cafes, convenience stores, and car rental services to facilitate onward travel. An illuminated map shows the network of stations, both operational and upcoming.
Inside the Cabin
Stepping onto one of the state-of-the-art trains, each capable of accommodating up to 400 passengers, passengers encounter an entirely new standard of domestic travel. Designed to hit maximum speeds of up to 200 kilometres per hour, the carriages cut smoothly through the diverse landscapes of the UAE.
As the train moves east, the view changes dramatically from urban landscape to rugged peaks. The chance to take in rolling desert stretches, palm-dotted farmland, and towering mountain landscapes from the comfort of an air-conditioned cabin is reason enough to make the journey.
Younger travellers, meanwhile, delight at the sight of grazing camels, pointing excitedly at homes tucked among the slopes.
The inaugural route covers the roughly 250-kilometre expanse between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah in 105 minutes, a distance that normally takes about three hours to traverse by car.
In Comfort Class, travellers settle into reserved reclining seats equipped with free Wi-Fi. Those opting for Premium Class enjoy pre-trip lounge access that includes complimentary food, and travel on wider, highly adjustable seating with generous legroom.
Announcements keep travellers informed about trip progress, and screens in each cabin display the speed of the train, a feature that has proved to be a hit among passengers.
What’s Next?
On September 30, Etihad Rail is expected to expand its footprint by opening stations in Dubai and Al Dhaid, with more stations launching in Al Dhafra Region in November. The upcoming launches will introduce even more convenient travel times, such as a 57-minute journey between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
As the weather cools down across the UAE, these effortless rail trips — bridged on both ends with easy access to public transport along the last mile — are set to become an increasingly popular way to explore the seven emirates, and to savour the multitude of experiences that they offer.
