A closer look at the UAE’s upcoming Etihad Rail passenger service reveals modern interiors, comfortable seating, and advanced travel features designed to transform rail journeys and enhance transportation experiences across the country.
UAE’s Etihad Rail Passenger Train Revealed from the Inside.
The UAE’s ambitious 900-kilometre railway project is expected to launch passenger operations later this year, marking a major step forward in the country’s transport sector. During the initial phase, the rail service will link key destinations including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah, offering residents and visitors a faster and more scenic travel option across the Emirates.
For years, many people in the UAE have imagined taking a train journey through the breathtaking Hajar Mountains, and that vision is now becoming a reality. On Tuesday, Insider 18 joined a select group invited to experience an exclusive preview ride aboard one of the new passenger trains departing from Fujairah.
The journey showcased some of the most impressive engineering achievements in the region. Passengers travelled through sections of the Middle East’s longest railway tunnel while enjoying dramatic mountain landscapes along the route. The trip also included a stop at the nation’s tallest railway bridge, providing stunning panoramic views and highlighting the scale of the infrastructure project.
From the modern train interiors to the smooth ride through rugged terrain, the experience offered a glimpse into the future of rail travel in the UAE. Here is a detailed account of the memorable journey and everything witnessed along the way.
The station
The striking station, finished in cream and grey tones, stands out with its modern architecture, wide glass windows, and stylish panels. Convenient parking and easy-to-follow signs make access smooth and hassle-free for visitors.
Entrance
Upon stepping inside, visitors are welcomed by a spacious open-layout interior featuring elegant cream and grey flooring that creates a modern atmosphere. The station has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate people of determination, ensuring easy accessibility throughout. Once fully functional, the facility is also expected to include a variety of retail outlets and shopping options for passengers.
Ticket
Travelers will have several convenient ways to purchase tickets, including digital booking platforms and online services. Stations will also feature self-service kiosks capable of providing both printed tickets and electronic passes. While official fare details are still undisclosed, authorities have confirmed that different travel packages and pricing options will be introduced for passengers.
Platform
Passengers can access the station interior through a modern automated entry gate system designed for smooth and efficient movement. From there, escalators carry travelers to the upper level, leading directly to an open-air boarding platform. Digital display screens installed across the platform will provide real-time information about arriving and departing trains, helping commuters stay updated on schedules, timings, and platform details before boarding their journey.
Trains
Designed with a modern and streamlined appearance, the trains can accommodate around 400 travelers at a time. Reaching speeds of nearly 200 kilometres per hour, the service is expected to significantly cut travel time, allowing journeys between Dubai and Abu Dhabi in under an hour, while trips from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will take approximately 105 minutes.
Seats
The train offers two travel categories: Premium and Comfort. Premium cabins feature spacious reclining seats in a light grey finish with foldable tray tables, while Comfort seating comes in darker tones with adjustable armrests arranged in grouped layouts. Both classes include convenient charging sockets and power points beside every seat.
Tunnels
Passengers travelling on routes connected to Fujairah will pass through nine impressive tunnels carved into the Hajar Mountains. Stretching a combined distance of nearly 6.9 kilometres, this remarkable tunnel network is considered the longest railway tunnel system of its type anywhere in the region.
Luggage
The 900-kilometre railway system is designed with convenient connectivity, placing stations near major airports across the UAE. Passengers carrying baggage are provided with a designated storage section within each carriage to ensure security and organization. In addition, overhead racks are available for smaller items, allowing travelers to store hand luggage comfortably during their journey.
Bithna Bridge
While travelling along the route, passengers will cross the impressive Bithna Bridge, which stands as the tallest structure in the entire rail network. Rising to a height of about 40 metres and extending more than 600 metres in length, this engineering landmark offers a memorable travel experience. As the train moves across the bridge, travellers are treated to sweeping panoramic views of the historic Bithna Fort along with the lush green landscapes that surround it. The elevated journey provides a striking contrast between modern infrastructure and natural scenery, making this section of the trip one of the most visually remarkable moments on the route.
