Etihad Rail reveals 7 new UAE stations ahead of 2026 launch

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Etihad Rail

Etihad Rail, the UAE’s national railway operator, has revealed seven additional stations for its much-anticipated passenger service, due to launch in 2026. Spanning the east and west coasts and extending inland to the edge of the Empty Quarter, the expanded network is set to unlock new opportunities for tourism and highlight the UAE’s diverse destinations to a wider audience.

The country’s first passenger rail network will connect major destinations including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah, with trains capable of carrying up to 400 passengers and reaching speeds of 200km/h. The newly confirmed stations – Al Sila, Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Mezaira’a, Al Faya and Al Dhaid – will become operational in phases, joining the previously announced major hubs.

According to Etihad Rail, 10 of the network’s 13 train sets have already been delivered and tested. Once operational, journey times between Abu Dhabi and Dubai are expected to be just 57 minutes.

GCC rail progresses, opening tourism opportunities

Etihad Rail to connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi in 30 minutes

Etihad Rail Mobility deputy CEO Azza AlSuwaidi said the passenger network would enhance connectivity between the emirates, transforming domestic travel for residents and visitors by providing an alternative to driving or private transfers for those wishing to explore multiple destinations across the UAE.

It will also make emerging tourism areas more accessible, including Fujairah on the east coast, with journey times from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah set to be around 105 minutes. From the west coast to the desert heartland and the east, the seven new stations will open up fresh opportunities for travel and tourism across the country.

Fujairah on the east coast

Seven New Stations

Among the newly announced stations are Al Sila and Al Dhannah, situated on the UAE’s west coast near the Saudi border in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region. Both will provide access to lesser-known coastal areas and protected natural reserves, including Sir Bani Yas Island – home to a major wildlife park with around 17,000 free-roaming animals – as well as the Anantara Al Sahel Resort, which offers 30 pool villas and activities from wildlife safari drives to guided tours and kayaking.

Elsewhere, Al Mirfa will serve visitors to the annual Al Dhafra Watersports Festival, while Madinat Zayed hosts the region’s celebrated Al Dhafra Festival, known for its traditional crafts and camel culture.

Anantara Al Sahel Resort

Further inland, Mezaira’a connects travellers to Liwa Oasis and the edge of the Empty Quarter, the world’s largest sand desert – vast landscapes made famous in recent Hollywood blockbusters such as Mission Impossible, Star Wars, and Dune. IHG opened the Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection here last year, marking the first desert resort for the brand.

On the east coast, oasis town Al Dhaid – framed by the Hajar Mountains – offers a glimpse into rural life, with its date palm plantations and bustling Friday Market.

Back in the UAE’s most popular hotspots, the Dubai and Abu Dhabi stations are strategically located near key tourism zones. Dubai’s station at Jumeirah Golf Estates will link directly to the city’s metro and sit within reach of Dubai World Central Airport. Abu Dhabi’s station in Mohammed Bin Zayed City provides easy access to Yas Island and the new Zayed International Airport.

Aldhafra Resort Vignette Collection abu dhabi

Aldhafra Resort Vignette Collection in Abu Dhabi

Etihad Rail has also announced plans for a high-speed passenger service linking Dubai and Abu Dhabi, expected to reduce journey times to just 30 minutes with trains travelling at 350km/h.

The UAE network will eventually connect all seven emirates – including Umm Al Quwain, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah – and will also pass into neighbouring Oman and Saudi Arabia through the wider GCC Rail project, which will link tourism hotspots including Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah, Muscat, Doha, Riyadh and Jeddah, providing a land link from the Indian Ocean to the Arabian Gulf and Red Sea.

For more information, visit www.etihadrail.ae