The UAE is developing a modern railway network to make travel between its emirates easier and more comfortable. Etihad Rail stations are an important part of this development, connecting major destinations and helping residents and visitors travel across the country. With passenger services now operating on selected routes, the railway offers a new alternative to travelling by car or bus.
Whether you want to travel from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, explore Fujairah, or visit destinations in Sharjah, understanding the station locations and planned routes can help you prepare for your journey. The network is also expanding in phases, with additional stations planned to connect more cities and communities.
This guide explains the main Etihad Rail stations, their locations, passenger services, travel benefits, and useful tips for planning your trip.
What Is Etihad Rail?
Etihad Rail is the national railway project of the United Arab Emirates. It was developed to improve transportation, support economic growth, and connect communities across the country.
The railway network serves freight transportation and is expanding its passenger services to connect major cities and regions. Passenger trains provide an additional travel option for people commuting to work, visiting family, or exploring different parts of the UAE.
The passenger network officially launched in 2026, with services introduced in phases. The initial operating network connects Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhaid, and Fujairah. More stations are scheduled to join as the project expands.
According to Etihad Rail, the full passenger network is planned to connect 11 cities and regions. This expansion will help create a more connected transport system across the Emirates.
List of Etihad Rail Stations in the UAE
The planned passenger network includes stations serving major urban areas and communities across the country. The following locations are part of the announced network.
1. Abu Dhabi Station
The Abu Dhabi passenger station is located in Mohammed Bin Zayed City. It serves as an important connection point for people travelling to and from the UAE capital.
The station gives passengers another option for intercity journeys and supports connections with other transport services. Its location can be useful for residents, business travellers, and visitors who need to reach different parts of Abu Dhabi.
Before travelling, check the official booking platform for available departures, ticket prices, and transport connections from the station.
2. Dubai Station
Dubai Station is located in the Jumeirah Golf Estates area. It connects the railway network with Dubai’s wider transport system.
The station has a pedestrian bridge connecting it to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, making it easier for passengers to transfer between Etihad Rail and the Dubai Metro.
This connection can benefit commuters and visitors who want to continue their journeys using public transport rather than relying entirely on private cars or taxis.
Dubai Station is an important part of the national network because it connects one of the UAE’s busiest commercial and tourism centres with other emirates.
3. Fujairah Station
The station connects the eastern part of the UAE with the national passenger railway network.
Fujairah is known for its beaches, mountains, coastal scenery, and outdoor attractions. Rail services provide a new option for people travelling to the emirate for leisure, family visits, or business.
The passenger network began its introductory service between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi in June 2026. The route gives travellers an alternative to driving across the country.
Check the latest timetable before departure, as service frequency and available connections may vary.
4. Al Dhaid Station
Al Dhaid Station serves the Al Dhaid area in Sharjah emirate. The town is known for its agricultural surroundings and location away from Sharjah’s main urban centre.
The station expands railway access beyond the largest cities and gives residents another option for travelling to destinations such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah, depending on the available timetable.
Al Dhaid also demonstrates how Etihad Rail aims to connect different types of communities rather than focusing only on major business districts.
5. Madinat Zayed Station
Madinat Zayed is an important regional centre in the Al Dhafra area of Abu Dhabi emirate.
Etihad Rail has announced plans to open the Madinat Zayed passenger station on 30 November 2026. The station is intended to improve access to the western region and support travel during its events and festival season.
Once passenger services begin, residents and visitors may have another convenient option for travelling to and from this part of Abu Dhabi emirate.
Check the official Etihad Rail website for the latest opening updates and ticket availability.
6. Liwa Station
Liwa is known for its desert landscapes, traditional communities, and proximity to the Rub’ al Khali, also known as the Empty Quarter.
The planned Liwa station is part of the railway’s expansion into the Al Dhafra region. Etihad Rail has announced 30 November 2026 as the planned opening date for this station.
The service could make regional travel more accessible and support tourism around Liwa’s desert attractions. Visitors should confirm the operational status and available routes before making travel arrangements.
7. Al Mirfa Station
Al Mirfa is a coastal town in the Al Dhafra region. It is known for its seaside setting and local outdoor activities.
The planned Al Mirfa station forms part of Etihad Rail’s wider passenger expansion. Its inclusion can help improve connections for residents and visitors in western Abu Dhabi emirate.
The station’s operating date and timetable should be checked through official channels before travelling.
8. Al Dhannah Station
Al Dhannah is another location included in the planned passenger railway network in the Al Dhafra region.
The station is intended to improve regional connectivity and provide another access point for communities and destinations in western Abu Dhabi emirate.
As the network expands, the station may support local travel, business activity, and tourism. Passengers should confirm when services begin and which routes are available.
9. Al Sila’ Station
Al Sila’ lies in the western part of Abu Dhabi emirate, close to the UAE’s border with Saudi Arabia.
Its inclusion in the announced passenger network reflects the aim of extending railway access to communities beyond the country’s main urban centres.
The planned station could provide additional travel choices for residents and help strengthen connections across the Al Dhafra region.
Check official announcements for the latest opening information before planning a journey.
10. Al Faya Station
Al Faya is another announced location within the wider Etihad Rail passenger network.
Its planned inclusion will contribute to the expansion of railway connections across the UAE. As the network develops, stations serving additional communities can make intercity travel more accessible.
Travellers should consult the official station directory for confirmed location details, operating status, and available services.
11. University City Station, Sharjah
University City Station is planned to serve the University City area in Sharjah, which contains educational institutions and other important facilities.
The station can eventually provide a useful transport option for students, university employees, and other passengers travelling between Sharjah and the rest of the UAE.
Etihad Rail has announced a planned opening date of 30 March 2027 for the Sharjah station. Travellers should confirm any changes to the schedule through official announcements.
Etihad Rail Routes and Journey Planning
The railway connects major destinations and is designed to make intercity travel more predictable.
Popular routes include Abu Dhabi to Dubai, Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, and journeys involving Al Dhaid. The exact routes available depend on the current operational phase and timetable.
For example, the initial Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service began in June 2026, while the wider passenger network expanded in September 2026.
When planning a journey, consider these steps:
- Visit the official Etihad Rail website.
- Select your departure and arrival stations.
- Check available travel dates and departure times.
- Compare the available ticket classes and fare options.
- Review station access, parking, and onward transport.
- Book through an official channel and keep your booking details.
Avoid assuming that every announced station already operates passenger services. The railway is opening additional locations in phases.
Facilities at Etihad Rail Stations
Etihad Rail aims to provide a comfortable and accessible passenger experience.
Station facilities and services can vary by location, but the passenger network is designed to include clear signage, waiting areas, and assistance for travellers.
Trains offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and luggage space. Passengers can choose between Comfort Class and Premium Class on available services, subject to the route and booking options.
The railway also focuses on accessibility for passengers who need additional assistance. Check the official accessibility information if you require wheelchair support or other travel arrangements.
Benefits of Etihad Rail Stations
The expansion of Etihad Rail stations offers several benefits for the UAE.
Better connectivity: The railway connects major cities and regional communities, providing an alternative to road travel.
More travel choices: Passengers can compare rail services with driving, buses, and other transport options.
Support for tourism: Improved connections can help people explore coastal destinations, desert regions, and urban attractions.
Economic opportunities: Better transport links can support businesses, employment, and regional development.
A more sustainable option: Passenger rail can help reduce reliance on private cars when travellers choose it instead of driving. Its overall environmental impact depends on factors such as passenger numbers and energy use.
Conclusion
Etihad Rail stations are helping shape the future of transportation in the UAE. With passenger services connecting Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhaid, and Fujairah, the railway already provides a new way to travel between key destinations.
Further expansion is planned for locations such as Madinat Zayed, Liwa, Al Mirfa, Al Dhannah, Al Sila’, Al Faya, and University City in Sharjah. These additions are intended to make the national network more accessible to residents, visitors, and businesses.
Before travelling, check the official Etihad Rail website for current station status, routes, timetables, and ticket prices. Planning ahead will help you choose the right station and enjoy a smoother journey across the UAE.
