The United Arab Emirates has achieved a historic milestone in its transport infrastructure today. The first Etihad Rail passenger train has completed its inaugural trial journey, travelling from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi’s Mohamed bin Zayed City Station. The successful journey marks a major step towards the commercial launch of the country’s long-awaited inter-emirate passenger railway.

The trial service signals the start of final testing operations ahead of the network’s official opening. According to schedule, regular passenger services between Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhaid and Fujairah will begin on September 30th. The network will then expand in phases, reaching Al Dhafra Region by December 2026, followed by Sharjah connections in March 2027.

Passengers aboard the trial train described the journey as smooth and comfortable, with modern amenities and reliable performance. The passenger rail network is central to the UAE’s strategy to strengthen sustainable transport and reduce travel times across the emirates. Once fully operational, it will provide an efficient alternative to road travel for residents and visitors.

The Etihad Rail passenger service comes a decade after the launch of the national freight network, which began commercial operations in 2016, initially transporting sulphur from Shah and Habshan to Ruwais. The initiative also builds on earlier urban transit systems, including Dubai Metro which began operations in 2009, and Dubai Tram in 2014.