Etihad Rail has announced that its new passenger stations in Liwa and Zayed City will begin welcoming travelers from November 30, marking another step in the UAE’s rail network expansion.
Etihad Rail to Launch Passenger Stations in Liwa and Zayed City on November 30.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed has instructed authorities to move up the launch date so it aligns with the beginning of the Al Dhafra region’s events and festival season.
Etihad Rail has announced that the opening date for its passenger train stations in Zayed City and Liwa has been moved forward, with operations now scheduled to begin on November 30, 2026. The revised timeline brings the launch date one month earlier than previously planned, allowing the new stations to become operational ahead of the upcoming activities and celebrations taking place in the Al Dhafra region.
The decision follows a meeting between Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, and a delegation from Etihad Rail. During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan directed that the opening of the passenger stations be advanced to better align with the start of the region’s annual events and festival season.
The earlier launch is expected to support transportation needs during a period when Al Dhafra attracts increased visitor activity due to its wide range of cultural events, public gatherings and seasonal festivals. The introduction of passenger rail services will provide an additional travel option for people moving within the region during this busy period.
Etihad Rail’s passenger network forms part of the UAE’s wider efforts to develop modern and efficient transportation solutions. The addition of the Zayed City and Liwa stations will expand passenger connectivity and provide residents and visitors with another mode of travel across the country.
By bringing the operational date forward, the stations will be available to support increased movement in Al Dhafra during a key time of the year. The region’s festival season traditionally draws visitors from across the UAE and beyond, creating greater demand for convenient transportation options.
The decision reflects the importance of improving accessibility and supporting major events through reliable transport infrastructure. With the passenger stations opening earlier than originally scheduled, visitors will have an additional option for reaching destinations in Al Dhafra while enjoying the region’s activities and attractions.
The meeting between Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed and the Etihad Rail delegation highlighted the importance of coordinating transport developments with the needs of local communities and visitors. Advancing the launch date demonstrates a focus on ensuring that new infrastructure contributes effectively to regional development and public convenience.
The Zayed City and Liwa stations are expected to play a role in strengthening connections within the Al Dhafra region by providing passengers with a modern rail travel option. The move also supports the UAE’s ongoing commitment to expanding its transportation network and improving mobility across different areas of the country.
As the November 30 opening date approaches, preparations will continue to ensure that the stations are ready to welcome passengers. The earlier commencement of services is expected to enhance travel opportunities during one of the region’s most active periods of the year.
The launch of these passenger stations represents another milestone in Etihad Rail’s efforts to establish a comprehensive rail system that connects communities and supports economic, social and tourism activities across the UAE. By aligning the opening with the festival season in Al Dhafra, the service is positioned to provide timely support for residents and visitors alike.
When will the Etihad Rail stations open?
Etihad Rail is progressing with the phased rollout of its passenger stations across the UAE, with different locations expected to become operational between 2026 and 2027. The planned schedule highlights the gradual expansion of passenger rail services, bringing connectivity to several emirates and regions in stages.
The first phase of station openings is expected to begin in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, where passenger stations are scheduled to commence operations on June 30, 2026. The launch of these stations will mark an important step in expanding the UAE’s passenger rail network and improving links between different parts of the country.
Following this, Etihad Rail plans to introduce services at stations in Dubai and Al Dhaid on September 30, 2026. The addition of these locations will further extend the reach of passenger rail services, providing more travel options for residents and visitors while strengthening connections between urban areas and surrounding regions.
Later in 2026, the network expansion will continue with the opening of passenger stations in Zayed City and Liwa. These stations are expected to begin operations on November 30, 2026, bringing rail services to more communities in the Al Dhafra region. The timing of the launch is aligned with the region’s annual events and festival season, helping support increased visitor movement during this period.
Additional stations across the Al Dhafra region are planned to open shortly after, with operations expected to begin on December 20, 2026. These developments will further improve accessibility within the region and provide passengers with additional transportation choices.
The final stage in the current station opening schedule is planned for Sharjah, where the passenger station is expected to become operational on March 30, 2027. This expansion will continue the gradual development of Etihad Rail’s passenger network and contribute to a more connected transport system across the UAE.
The phased approach allows each station to be introduced according to operational readiness and infrastructure requirements. By opening stations in stages, Etihad Rail can ensure that services are prepared to meet passenger needs while expanding coverage across different parts of the country.
Once completed, the passenger rail network will provide an additional transportation option for people travelling between emirates and regions. The planned stations will support easier movement, improve connectivity and contribute to the UAE’s wider transportation goals.
The scheduled openings reflect the continued development of rail infrastructure in the country, with Etihad Rail working towards creating a modern passenger service that links communities and supports mobility. Each new station will represent another milestone in the expansion of the national rail network.
The introduction of passenger services across these locations is expected to benefit residents, visitors and businesses by providing an efficient alternative for travel. As the network expands, more communities will gain access to rail connectivity, supporting convenience and improved transportation choices throughout the UAE.
