Etihad Rail begins trials ahead of September 30 UAE passenger service launch

Etihad Rail has begun trial operations ahead of the launch of its passenger service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai on September 30, adding another transport option between the UAE’s two largest commercial centres.

The new service will initially operate 10 daily journeys between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as well as six daily services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

The expansion follows the launch of passenger services on the Abu Dhabi-Fujairah route on June 30.

Etihad Rail said the trial runs are being used to test the trains, stations, routes and passenger-handling procedures before the Dubai service opens to the public.

The new Dubai service will operate through Al Yalayis Station, the third Etihad Rail passenger station in the emirate.

The station, which was completed ahead of schedule, is designed to connect the national railway with Dubai’s existing public transport network.

A pedestrian bridge of about 400 metres will link Al Yalayis Station with Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station, giving passengers access to Dubai Metro’s Red Line and onward connections to destinations across the city.

The connection is expected to allow passengers to combine intercity rail services with Dubai Metro for the final leg of their journeys.

Etihad Rail Mobility Executive Director, Commercial and Support, Adhraa Almansoori, said the Abu Dhabi-Al Yalayis route was an important addition to the UAE’s national transport network.

According to her, the stations are being developed with connections to different modes of transport, including car parks, taxis, buses and private transport operators.

The approach is aimed at making rail travel more accessible by providing passengers with options for reaching both their departure points and final destinations.

The passenger network is expected to serve a wide range of users, including families, students, workers, tourists, senior citizens and People of Determination.

Etihad Rail said safety, comfort, accessibility and reduced journey times remain key priorities as it expands passenger operations.

With the Dubai route joining the existing Fujairah service, the railway operator is moving towards a more integrated passenger network linking intercity rail with established urban transport systems across the UAE.