Etihad Rail promises to revolutionise travel and logistics across the UAE, improving connectivity, reducing travel time, boosting economic activity, and enhancing daily life for thousands of residents and businesses nationwide.
Much-anticipated transport link: How Etihad Rail is set to transform everyday life for thousands
Residents of Al Sila, a town near the UAE–Saudi border, have welcomed the announcement of Etihad Rail stations as a long-overdue boost to their connection with the rest of the country. For many years, people in the area have dealt with extended travel times and limited transport options that affected daily routines and access to services.
“Life in Al Sila often means spending hours on the road whenever we need to reach another city,” said local resident Salma Almansoori. “A passenger train will be a huge relief, particularly for families and older people who find long drives tiring.”
On Thursday, Etihad Rail confirmed seven additional stations that will help complete the UAE’s national passenger rail network. This announcement marks a major step forward as passenger services edge closer to their expected launch later this year. The new stations will broaden rail access across Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region and Sharjah, bringing isolated and semi-urban areas closer to major cities.
The expanded network will take travellers through the heart of the UAE, offering scenic journeys that span sweeping desert landscapes and the rugged beauty of the Hajar Mountains. A senior official previously described the experience as one that passengers are likely to enjoy, combining comfort with striking views.
In Madinat Zayed, the administrative hub of Al Dhafra, residents say the upcoming station could significantly support commuting needs and local development. “This city serves many nearby communities,” explained Mayam Almazrouei. “A rail stop here will make travel to Abu Dhabi and other emirates much easier, especially for students and working professionals.”
People in both Al Sila and Madinat Zayed also pointed to broader advantages, such as easing traffic on highways and improving overall road safety. Long-distance driving, they said, often takes a physical and mental toll. “A dependable rail service will completely change how we organise our journeys,” Almansoori added.
Although details such as ticket prices and timetables have not yet been released, residents say the confirmed inclusion of their areas has already created optimism. “Knowing that our town is now part of the plan makes the project feel real,” Almazrouei said.
The newly named stations include Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Mezairaa, Al Faya and Al Dhaid. Earlier announcements had also identified future stations in Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah and the Al Hilal district in Fujairah.
Beyond improving daily commutes, residents believe the passenger rail network could unlock new economic opportunities for smaller towns along the route. Easier access to major cities may encourage businesses to expand operations into Al Dhafra and surrounding regions, creating jobs closer to home. Local shops, hospitality providers and service industries are expected to benefit from increased movement of people. Community members say this could reduce the need for young residents to relocate elsewhere for work, helping families stay together while supporting balanced regional development across the UAE.
The rail stations are also seen as a catalyst for social connectivity. Families separated by long distances may find it easier to visit one another more frequently, strengthening social ties between emirates. Students could commute daily to universities without relocating, while patients may access specialised healthcare in major cities more conveniently. Residents say the train will offer a safer and more relaxed alternative to long highway drives, particularly during extreme weather or peak traffic periods, making travel less stressful for all age groups.
Looking ahead, many hope Etihad Rail will encourage a broader shift toward sustainable transport. By reducing reliance on private vehicles, the network is expected to lower carbon emissions and ease pressure on road infrastructure. Residents say this aligns with the UAE’s wider goals of sustainability and smart mobility. As anticipation builds ahead of the passenger service launch, communities along the route are optimistic that the rail project will not only shorten distances, but also bring lasting improvements to quality of life and national integration.
