Etihad Rail Dubai–Abu Dhabi Service Launches from AED 39
Commuters between Dubai and Abu Dhabi have a brand-new way to travel as Etihad Rail officially launched its passenger train service on September 30, 2026. The new route provides a swift and efficient alternative to driving, connecting Al Yalayis Station in Dubai’s Jumeirah Golf Estates to Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi in approximately 64 minutes.
The service was inaugurated on September 28, 2026, by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, who was accompanied by Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Theyab.
Affordable Fares and Flexible Ticket Tiers
Etihad Rail is offering competitive pricing to encourage commuters to switch from road to rail. During the launch week, one-way tickets for Comfort Class start at just AED 39, while Premium Class tickets begin at AED 109. For those travelling from Dubai to Fujairah, Comfort Class tickets are available from AED 29.
To suit different needs, passengers can choose from three distinct ticket tiers:
- Saver: The base fare, which does not allow for changes or refunds.
- Value: The base fare plus AED 20, which includes seat selection and the ability to make changes.
- Flex: The base fare plus AED 60 for Comfort Class or AED 90 for Premium Class, offering full flexibility for changes and refunds.
Special discounts are also available, with children receiving a 50% discount and passengers aged 60 and older eligible for 20% off.
Daily Train Schedules
The service currently operates five daily trips in each direction. To help passengers plan their journeys, the scheduled departure times are as follows:
From Dubai (Al Yalayis Station):
- 06:14
- 07:14
- 13:14
- 17:14
- 18:14
From Abu Dhabi (Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station):
- 06:43
- 07:43
- 12:43
- 16:43
- 17:43
Seamless Connectivity and Station Amenities
Travelers can enjoy a smooth transition between different modes of transport. The Al Yalayis Station is connected to the Dubai Metro Red Line via a 400-metre pedestrian bridge. Furthermore, the system features Nol card integration, allowing for a seamless journey between the train and Dubai's public transport network.
The station is designed for passenger convenience, featuring various amenities including:
- Retail outlets: Including Starbucks, WHSmith, and Shot cafe.
- Car rental services: Available through Thrifty and Lulu.
- Facilities: Dedicated parking areas for commuters.
Tickets can be purchased through the official website etihadrail.ae, via station vending machines, or using the integrated Nol/QR ticketing system.
A Timely Alternative to Road Travel
The launch of this rail service comes at a critical time for motorists in the UAE. For October 2026, fuel prices have seen a surge, with Super 98 at AED 4.40 per litre, Special 95 at AED 4.28, E-Plus 91 at AED 4.21, and diesel at AED 4.80 per litre.
Additionally, new heavy-vehicle restrictions implemented by the RTA and Dubai Police on October 1, 2026, have introduced a 16-hour daily ban on trucks (from 6am to 10pm) across major corridors such as Sheikh Zayed Road, Airport Street, Oman Street, and Damascus Street. This makes the new Etihad Rail service an even more vital link for passenger movement across the Emirates.