Etihad Rail: Dubai-Abu Dhabi Train Tickets Now On Sale from AED 39
Commuters traveling between Dubai and Abu Dhabi are set to experience a major shift in regional travel. Etihad Rail has officially commenced ticket sales for its passenger service connecting the two cities, with the first official departures scheduled for September 30, 2026.
A Faster Alternative to Road Travel
The new rail service aims to drastically reduce travel times for passengers currently stuck in heavy traffic. While driving between the two cities during peak hours can take anywhere from 90 to 120 minutes, the train is expected to complete the journey in approximately 57 minutes.
The service will operate from the Al Yalayis station, situated in Jumeirah Golf Estates near the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). For those utilizing public transport, the station offers seamless connectivity via a 400-meter elevated walkway that links directly to the Dubai Metro Red Line at the Jumeirah Golf Estates metro station.
Ticket Classes and Pricing
Etihad Rail has introduced different tiers of service to cater to various passenger needs. Travelers can choose from three booking categories: Saver (non-refundable with auto-assigned seating), Value, and Flex.
Pricing and amenities are split into two primary classes:
- Comfort Class: Starting at AED 39. This option includes complimentary Wi-Fi, in-seat power sockets, and refreshments served via a trolley service.
- Premium Class: Starting at AED 109. This premium experience offers reclining seats, additional legroom, quiet cabins, and complimentary refreshments.
Bookings can be made through the official website, etihadrail.ae, or via the Etihad Rail mobile application.
Daily Schedule and Discounts
On the inaugural day of service, September 30, the first train is slated to depart from Al Yalayis station at approximately 6:15 a.m., heading toward the Mohammed bin Zayed City station in Abu Dhabi. The final train is scheduled to arrive by 7:18 p.m.
To make travel more accessible, Etihad Rail is offering the following discounts:
- Children (ages 2 to 17): 50% discount.
- Seniors (60 and above): 20% discount.
Important Passenger Regulations
Passengers are reminded to strictly adhere to the official Passenger Charter. The charter outlines specific security regulations and a mandatory dress code.
Failure to comply with these regulations may result in significant penalties, with fines reaching up to AED 5,000.
Expanding the Network
The Dubai-Abu Dhabi route is just the beginning of a larger expansion. Other upcoming developments include:
- Fujairah Service: Currently available starting at AED 39, with a travel time of roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Al Dhaid Station (Sharjah): Scheduled to open on September 30.
- Al Dhafra and Liwa Stations: Expected to become operational in November or December 2026.