Riding the Future: Exploring Dubai's Etihad Rail Passenger Train Revolution

Etihad Rail passenger train, one of the most talked about projects in the UAE and the world, is all set to revolutionise logistics, transportation, and infrastructure across the region. Expectations are high for this seamless and efficient railway network. Here is the information you need about the Etihad train service.

What is Etihad Rail Passenger Train?

The Etihad Rail passenger train is planned to be a comprehensive railway network connecting major cities, industrial zones, and key points of economic activity across the UAE. A project by the Public Joint Stock Company (PJSC), Etihad Rail, came to light in 2009. It is 70% owned by the Abu Dhabi government and 30% owned by the federal UAE government.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, inaugurated the freight line in February 2023, consisting of 38 locomotives and over 1,000 wagons. Initially, the Etihad Rail passenger service will be exclusively available to ADNOC's staff and contractors. The UAE national rail network will eventually be open to passengers from the entire GCC.

Check out the Etihad rail route map for further understanding of the Etihad train route

What’s New?

Etihad Rail operated its first freight journey for ADNOC staff on January 25, 2024, connecting the cities of Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah. Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Managing Director and Group CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), was among the passengers on the maiden trip.

He said, “The Etihad Rail project is more than just a rail network. It will serve as a vital artery for economic growth and infrastructure development while driving decarbonisation for the benefit of the UAE and its people.”

Keep an eye on Dubai updates to get the latest Etihad Rail news.

Construction of the Etihad Rail Network

The construction of the Etihad Rail passenger train is segmented into two stages, with Stage One completed in 2016, while over 70% of the construction for Stage Two has been accomplished.

Stage One of the Etihad train, a 264km western stretch connecting Al Ruwais and Shah, includes crucial freight lines for transporting granulated sulphur from Habshan and Shah to Al Ruwais.

Stage Two, measuring 605km, extends from the Saudi Arabia border at Ghuweifat, connecting various Emirates, including Abu Dhabi, Khalifa Port, Kizad, Dubai, Ras al-Khaimah, Jebel Ali Port, Sharjah, and Fujairah on the east coast.

The dedicated train line between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, spanning 256km, was completed in March 2022, encompassing various infrastructure components such as bridges, crossings, and drainage channels, with a total investment of AED50 billion ($13.62 billion). By 2030, it is expected to serve more than 36.5 million passengers annually.

Advantages of the Etihad Rail Passenger Train

The Etihad Passenger Train will offer a range of benefits, including being cheaper, faster, safer, and more reliable. The project's contribution to reducing CO2 emissions subtly mirrors the objectives championed in international environmental forums and contributes to the UAE Net Zero 2050 agenda.

The Etihad UAE passenger train project presents an array of opportunities for the real estate sector, from the rise of new business hubs to the appreciation of properties along the rail's path.
 

This innovation marks the beginning of a transformative journey for the UAE. This ambitious initiative is redefining transportation and reshaping the future of urban development and real estate investment. The project unveils new prospects for sustainable living and economic growth with each milestone.