ummary
- The introductory operations of Etihad Rail’s passenger service begins today
- The first train started at 5.34am from Fujairah for Abu Dhabi; journey was set to be completed in 105 mins
- Passengers were welcomed with Emirati traditional dance, Arabic coffee at Fujairah station
- Train arrives at Abu Dhabi station 7 minutes early
- Jubilant mood at Abu Dhabi station as passengers deboard after historic ride
New dawn in UAE’s public transport
We just witnessed history unfold on railway tracks as UAE’s first passenger train made its maiden trip from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi.
Today wasn’t just about getting from one city to another. It was about the UAE beginning a journey years in the making.
Many UAE residents were lucky enough to be part of this historic day, and went home with smiling faces and hearts full of memories.
This was just the first of many journeys as Etihad Rail’s formal launch happens on September 30 with the opening of Dubai station. It will be followed by Al Dhafra station on December 30, 2026 and Sharjah University station in March 2027.
We wrap up our coverage of the day with a promise that we will be back with minute-by-minute updates of each of those milestones as a new era of transport begins in the UAE.
A recap of the journey from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi
If you are just joining us, here’s a look back at how UAE’s first passenger train journey unfolded:
- Passengers arrived as early as 5am to board the train from Fujairah
- Guests were welcomed with Emirati traditional dance and Arabic coffee
- Ticket-holders scanned QR codes to enter the platform
- The train departed Fujairah station at 5.34am
- Travellers were treated to complimentary breakfast, tea and chocolates on board
- The train zoomed past DWC and Zayed Military City.
- It reached at Abu Dhabi 7 minutes ahead of scheduled arrival (7.19am).
- The mood was jubilant at Abu Dhabi station as the first passengers deboarded
- The first train from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah started at 8.19am
UAE residents take first Etihad Rail train straight to work
Some residents had planned entire overnight trips, secured special company approvals, and woken up before dawn to make sure they were on the first train and still at their desks by morning.
Nihad rallied a group of friends, drove to Fujairah, checked into a hotel, and took a taxi to the station at 4.30am.
After arriving in Abu Dhabi, he planned to take a bus and then the metro heading straight to work.
