The UAE’s national rail network, Etihad Rail, which is set to begin operations late 2026, has unveiled onboard passenger experience details, designed around business travellers, family and commuters.
Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Mobility, said the focus is now shifting from infrastructure delivery to user experience.
“This next phase of our passenger journey is about moving from infrastructure to experience. We are designing a service that people will actively choose because it fits naturally into their daily lives,” she said.
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The trains will run on a fixed timetable with guaranteed seating and a stress-free atmosphere. While business travellers will have access to onboard Wi-Fi, power at every seat and modern interiors, which allows them to work or prepare while travelling between the UAE’s major economic centres, families can avail joint seating options and luggage storage to support weekend trips and holidays. The Etihad Rail will also offer safe and convenient travel.
“Without the distractions of traffic, navigation or fatigue, families will be able to talk, play, read and share moments, turning the journey itself into part of the experience,” the company said. “Our rail experience is designed to create a very different family dynamic. Instead of focusing on the road, families can focus on each other,” she said.
Each train is expected to carry up to 400 passengers, travelling at speeds up to 200 km/h. The network aims to serve 36 million passengers annually by 2030.
Once fully operational, Etihad Rail will connect 11 cities and regions, namely: Al Sila, Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa, Madinat Zayed, Mezairaa, Al Faya, Al Dhaid, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai, University City in Sharjah and the Al Hilal area in Fujairah.