Etihad Rail recorded strong demand for its newly launched passenger rail service, with 5,000 tickets booked within two days of opening reservations for the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route.
Reservations opened on June 23 through the railway operator’s mobile application and online booking platform. All seats for the three inaugural passenger trips scheduled on June 30 were sold out.
Each train can accommodate up to 400 passengers and travel at speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour. The passenger network includes 11 stations across the United Arab Emirates, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Al Dhaid, Al Dhannah, Madinat Zayed, Liwa, Al Mirfa, Al Sila, and Al Fayah.
The launch marks a major milestone for the UAE’s passenger rail project, which was announced less than five years ago as part of the country’s “Projects of the 50” initiative.
Azza Al Suwaidi, Chief Operations Officer of Etihad Rail, said the country’s vision for a national railway network has rapidly progressed, allowing passengers to book and experience rail travel with ease.
Meanwhile, Adhra Al Mansoori, Executive Director of Commercial Affairs at Etihad Rail Passenger Services, said the company offers a range of ticket options designed to meet different passenger needs, from affordable fares to premium travel experiences.
Introductory fares for the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route start at AED 55 for Comfort Class and AED 120 for First Class.
Comfort Class passengers receive guaranteed seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, charging ports at every seat, and dedicated luggage space. First Class offers wider reclining seats, additional legroom, and complimentary refreshments.
Passenger services are operated by Etihad Rail Passenger Services, a joint venture between Etihad Rail and transport operator Keolis.
Travel time is approximately 105 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, 57 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and 69 minutes between Dubai and Fujairah.
Once the entire network is operational, Etihad Rail expects to serve up to 10 million passengers annually.
