Post by : Meena Ariff

Photo: Dubai Government Media Office

In a moment that marks a new chapter in the UAE’s journey of progress, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, recently boarded a passenger train from Dubai to Fujairah. This was not just a journey between two cities—it was a powerful symbol of unity, growth, and the future of transportation in the United Arab Emirates.

His Highness took this journey to personally review the progress of Etihad Rail, the country's most ambitious railway project. The train ride showcased how far the project has come and how close the UAE is to achieving its vision of a fully connected and sustainable transport system.

A Journey Toward the Future

This was not an ordinary train ride. It was a preview of what’s to come when passenger services begin in 2026. The trip between Dubai and Fujairah gave His Highness a firsthand experience of what people across the UAE will soon enjoy—a fast, comfortable, and eco-friendly way to travel between emirates.

While on board, His Highness received a detailed update from the Etihad Rail team about the project’s latest developments. He was briefed on the construction progress, plans, and how the railway will benefit both people and businesses.

Sheikh Mohammed shared his thoughts after the journey, saying, “Etihad Rail is a vital economic artery that supports the UAE’s journey to the future. It is a key part of our vision to build a modern transport network that connects people and goods across the country.”

He added that the project is not just about transportation—it reflects the unity of the UAE and brings together communities from every emirate. He thanked the hardworking team behind Etihad Rail and called their efforts a “source of national pride.”

What is Etihad Rail?

Etihad Rail is the national railway network of the UAE. It is being built in several stages and aims to connect all seven emirates through both passenger and freight trains. Once complete, the railway will link cities from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east. This massive project is one of the most important infrastructure efforts in the UAE’s history.

The passenger service will connect 11 key cities and areas, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. Trains will travel at speeds of up to 200 km per hour and can carry up to 400 passengers at a time. By 2030, the system is expected to serve over 36 million passengers every year.

The railway is being built with high safety and environmental standards in mind. It will not only reduce road traffic and pollution, but also help the country move closer to its goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Building a Stronger, More Connected Nation

The visit by Sheikh Mohammed is a reminder of the UAE's leadership’s hands-on approach to national projects. His presence on the train shows that the leaders of the country are personally invested in making sure every major development benefits the people.

His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, also commented on the occasion. He said it was an honor to host Sheikh Mohammed on this special journey and spoke about the leadership’s continuous support since the early stages of the project.

“Sheikh Mohammed has been with us since the announcement of the ‘Projects of the 50’ in 2021,” he said. “He saw the launch of freight operations in 2023 and now joins us as we prepare to welcome passengers. His support pushes us forward.”

Connecting Cities, Growing Communities

The stations being built in Dubai and Fujairah are more than just train stops. They are set to become major hubs that support travel, tourism, and local businesses. When trains start running in 2026, these stations will be vital links that make life easier for millions.

The goal is to create a travel experience that is not only quick and easy but also enjoyable and stress-free. The trains will have modern interiors, comfortable seating, and services that make long journeys feel short. Whether it's students heading to university, families going on trips, or workers commuting between emirates, the train will serve everyone.

Moreover, the train network is expected to boost the economy by connecting companies, factories, and ports across the country. It will make it easier to move goods and services, helping businesses grow and supporting new jobs.

A Greener Way to Travel

One of the most important parts of the Etihad Rail project is its focus on sustainability. Trains are among the most environmentally friendly ways to travel. They use less energy than cars or airplanes and produce fewer emissions. With this railway, the UAE is taking big steps toward protecting the planet while improving life for its people.

This aligns with the country’s broader strategy to become a global leader in clean energy, innovation, and smart infrastructure. From renewable power to green mobility, every project is part of a larger mission to build a brighter, cleaner, and more connected future.

The train journey from Dubai to Fujairah was just the beginning. In the coming months, construction will continue across various parts of the country to open the passenger service by 2026. People across the UAE will soon be able to travel quickly and comfortably between cities, reducing the time spent on roads and helping build stronger ties between emirates.

This is more than just a railway—it's a bridge that connects dreams with destinations. It’s a sign that the UAE is not slowing down. Instead, it’s racing ahead with confidence, unity, and vision.

With leaders like Sheikh Mohammed personally guiding these projects, the future of transportation in the UAE looks brighter than ever. The Etihad Rail passenger train is set to become a symbol of progress, connection, and pride for generations to come.