Etihad Rail Expansion: New Station Opening Dates, Ticket Prices and Scenic Routes Across the UAE

Etihad Rail is preparing for the next phase of its passenger network expansion after the successful launch of its introductory Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service, with new stations in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region scheduled to open over the coming months.

The passenger service, which began operations on June 30, has received strong demand from residents seeking a comfortable alternative to road travel, particularly for weekend trips. Tickets have been selling quickly, especially during peak travel periods, reflecting growing interest in rail travel across the UAE.

Dubai and Sharjah Stations to Open in September

The next major milestone for the national railway network is September 30, 2026, when passenger services will expand to include two new stations.

The Dubai station, located near Jumeirah Golf Estates, will officially be known as Al Yalayis Station, while a new station in Al Dhaid, Sharjah, will also begin operations on the same day. The expansion is expected to improve connectivity between key population centres across the country.

More Stations Planned Through Early 2027

Etihad Rail will continue expanding its passenger network in phases over the following months.

The next scheduled openings include:

• September 30, 2026: Al Yalayis Station (Dubai) and Al Dhaid Station (Sharjah)
• November 30, 2026: Madinat Zayed and Liwa stations in Abu Dhabi's Al Dhafra region
• December 30, 2026: Al Sila, Al Dhannah and Al Mirfa stations
• March 30, 2027: Sharjah University City Station, completing the first phase of the passenger rail network

The phased rollout will extend rail connectivity across all seven emirates as Etihad Rail continues developing its nationwide passenger service.

Introductory Ticket Prices

Passengers travelling on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route are currently benefiting from a 50% launch discount.

Current introductory fares include:

• Comfort Class: Starting from AED 55 (regular fare AED 109)
• Premium Class: Starting from AED 120 (regular fare AED 239)

Passengers can choose from three ticket categories:

• Saver: Lowest-priced option for fixed travel plans.
• Value: Includes seat selection with limited ticket modification options.
• Flex: Offers greater flexibility, including ticket changes and refunds.

Discounted fares are also available for children and senior citizens.

Etihad Rail said ticket prices for future routes will be announced closer to the launch of each new service.

Fujairah Route Emerges as the Network's Scenic Highlight

The Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service has quickly become one of the network's biggest attractions, offering passengers a journey through some of the UAE's most diverse landscapes.

The route begins in Abu Dhabi, passes through expansive desert dunes before entering the Hajar Mountains via specially constructed tunnels, and concludes along Fujairah's eastern coastline overlooking the Gulf of Oman.

According to Etihad Rail's first Emirati train captain, Ibrahim Al Hammadi, the route offers a travel experience rarely matched elsewhere.

"In a single journey you move from the open desert, with the dunes running alongside the track, into the drama of the Hajar Mountains, where the track passes through purpose-built tunnels, and then out to the beautiful east coast at Fujairah, with the Gulf of Oman opening up in front of you," he said.

With additional stations scheduled to open over the next year, Etihad Rail is set to play an increasingly important role in connecting cities and communities while offering residents and visitors a modern, comfortable and scenic alternative to road travel across the UAE.