Etihad Rail Unveils Futuristic Passenger Trains, Promising a New Era of UAE Travel
Etihad Rail’s passenger train project brings sleek, modern rail travel closer to reality, offering residents and visitors a fast, comfortable, and sustainable alternative across the UAE.
Etihad Rail’s highly anticipated passenger train project took center stage at the Global Rail 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, giving visitors an exclusive first look at the cutting-edge service set to redefine intercity travel in the UAE. Held at the ADNEC Centre under the theme “Driving the Future of Transport and Global Connectivity,” the event showcased innovation, collaboration, and the UAE’s commitment to world-class mobility solutions.
The exhibition, which runs through October 2, has drawn remarkable international attention. Over 20 ministerial delegations and top industry leaders from both public and private sectors are participating, representing more than 100 nationalities. With more than 200 companies spanning infrastructure, rolling stock, smart mobility, digital innovation, and finance, the three-day event is expected to welcome upwards of 20,000 visitors, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a global transport hub.
A major highlight has been the unveiling of Etihad Rail’s upcoming passenger train cabins, offering the public its first tangible glimpse of the future of rail travel in the UAE. The sleek, silver train features the iconic black and red Etihad Rail branding and demonstrates the service’s focus on modern design, comfort, and efficiency.
The trains will feature three distinct travel classes—economy, family, and first class—ensuring that every passenger experience is tailored to comfort and convenience. Economy cabins offer practical, back-to-back seating, while family cabins provide face-to-face arrangements with a central table ideal for group travel. First-class cabins feature wider, adjustable seats designed for maximum comfort, complemented by tray tables, overhead luggage compartments, and extra space for larger baggage.
Passengers will benefit from seamless station access through automated ticket barriers. Although online booking is encouraged, advanced ticket vending machines will also be available, supporting multiple payment methods including bank notes, cards, and Apple Pay. Travelers can choose their class, specify start and end points, and select special requirements, reflecting the system’s focus on convenience and accessibility.
Once operational, the Etihad Rail network promises swift and efficient journeys across key UAE cities. The Abu Dhabi to Dubai route will take just 57 minutes, while travel to Fujairah is projected at around 100 minutes, and Ruwais at approximately 70 minutes. The trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h, offering a fast, safe, and reliable alternative to road transport.
Two types of trains will operate on the network. Chinese CRC cabins offer 365 seats, while Spanish CAF cabins provide 369 seats, with slight interior design differences. Both models maintain the same three-class structure and provide a consistently high standard of comfort and service.
Etihad Rail is also emphasizing a branded and professional customer experience. Train drivers will wear grey and black uniforms, while station and onboard hosts will don cream and red attire, reflecting the railway’s dedication to service excellence and a visually cohesive experience.
Although ticket pricing and last-mile connectivity details have yet to be disclosed, the unveiling of the cabins marks a significant milestone in the UAE’s infrastructure and mobility development. The project demonstrates a commitment to sustainable, efficient, and world-class transportation, offering residents and visitors a reliable alternative to traffic-congested roads.
Experts say the introduction of passenger rail will not only enhance travel efficiency but also strengthen economic growth by connecting key urban centers, fostering tourism, and reducing environmental impact through reduced vehicle emissions. The initiative aligns with the UAE’s broader vision of integrating innovative and sustainable mobility solutions across the nation.
The Global Rail 2025 exhibition itself underscores the UAE’s leadership in global transport innovation. With over 70 companies debuting at the event, attendees experienced cutting-edge technologies in infrastructure, digital mobility, and smart transport systems, positioning the UAE as a hub for forward-thinking solutions in rail and logistics.
As Etihad Rail moves closer to its 2026 launch, excitement continues to build for residents and visitors eager to experience fast, safe, and luxurious intercity rail travel. The project promises not only to transform how people travel across the UAE but also to set a benchmark for high-quality, customer-focused transport in the region.
With sleek trains, thoughtful cabin designs, efficient journey times, and a professional service ethos, Etihad Rail represents a new era in UAE mobility, reflecting the nation’s commitment to innovation, comfort, and sustainable growth. The upcoming passenger operations are poised to deliver convenience, speed, and a modern travel experience that will redefine the way the UAE moves.
