Dubai to Abu Dhabi in 64 Minutes: Etihad Rail Passenger Service Launches

A transformative era of transportation has arrived in the UAE. On September 30, 2026, Etihad Rail officially commenced its passenger rail operations in Dubai, marked by the grand opening of the Al Yalayis Station located in Jumeirah Golf Estates.

The new service offers a rapid connection between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, significantly reducing travel time between the two emirates. The inaugural train departed Al Yalayis at 6:14 a.m., reaching the Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi by 7:18 a.m. This journey, completed in just 64 minutes, is powered by trains reaching top speeds of approximately 200 km/h.

Rapid Transit and New Network Connections

The passenger network is expanding quickly, with the Al Dhaid Station in Sharjah also opening to the public on the same morning. The infrastructure was officially inaugurated on September 28, 2026, by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed.

Each train is designed to accommodate roughly 400 passengers, providing a high-