Etihad Rail Dubai Starts: Dubai Station officially joins the passenger network on September 30, 2026, giving travellers another option for inter-emirate travel.

The Dubai launch comes after passenger services began between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah in June. With Dubai now added to the network, searches for Etihad Rail Dubai ticket prices, routes, timings and booking are likely to become increasingly important for residents and visitors planning journeys across the UAE.

Etihad Rail Dubai

Dubai Station is now part of the expanding Etihad Rail passenger network, alongside Al Dhaid Station.

The network is being introduced in stages. Further stations are scheduled to join the passenger service during late 2026 and into 2027, gradually expanding rail connections across the UAE.

For travellers, the Dubai launch means Etihad Rail can now be considered alongside road transport when planning inter-emirate journeys.

Etihad Rail Dubai Starts: Ticket Prices, Routes and Timings

The official Etihad Rail booking system currently shows starting fares of AED 39 for several Dubai-connected journeys.

Current examples include:

  • Dubai to Abu Dhabi — from AED 39

  • Abu Dhabi to Dubai — from AED 39

  • Dubai to Fujairah — from AED 39

These are starting fares, and the actual price can vary depending on the journey and selected service.

Passengers should check the official booking system for their specific travel date because available departures and fares can change.

Etihad Rail offers Comfort Class and Premium Class. Premium Class provides wider seats, additional legroom, reclining seats, power and USB connections, Wi-Fi and complimentary refreshments. Comfort Class also provides Wi-Fi and power facilities, with food and drinks available for purchase.

Booking and Dubai Transport Connections

Passengers need a valid reservation before boarding. Tickets can be purchased through the official Etihad Rail website and mobile application.

The Dubai service is particularly useful because of its connection with the city's wider public transport network. Dubai RTA is integrating Etihad Rail journeys with Dubai public transport, including information about using a nol One-Day Pass for onward travel.

The nol One-Day Pass is valid for the calendar day on which it is first used rather than for 24 hours from the first tap.

This connection could make Etihad Rail more convenient for travellers who need to continue their journey around Dubai after arriving at the railway station.

Luggage, Children and Discounts

Etihad Rail's current passenger rules allow passengers to bring up to two luggage items free of charge. A carry-on bag can measure up to 55 × 40 × 23 cm, while passengers can also carry a personal item such as a handbag or laptop bag under the applicable conditions.

Children aged 0–17 receive a 50% fare discount under the current rules. Children below 14 must travel with an adult.

Infants aged 0–2 can travel free when seated on an accompanying adult's lap. A separate seat requires a child ticket.

UAE residents aged 60 and above can receive a 20% senior discount, subject to the applicable conditions.

Etihad Rail also has specific rules for pets and assistance animals.

Dubai Launch Is Separate From the High-Speed Rail Project

The passenger service now operating in Dubai should not be confused with the UAE's planned high-speed rail project.

Etihad Rail's high-speed rail project is separate and is planned to connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai at speeds of up to 350 km/h, with a planned journey time of around 30 minutes.

The current Dubai passenger service is part of the national passenger railway network and should not be described as the 30-minute high-speed train.

More Stations Are Coming

The Dubai launch is part of a wider passenger railway rollout. Additional stations are planned across the UAE in phases, including locations in the Liwa, Madinat Zayed and Al Dhafra areas, with Sharjah also planned for a later stage.

As the network expands, Etihad Rail is expected to become increasingly relevant for people travelling between the UAE's major cities and regions.

For the latest Etihad Rail Dubai ticket price, departure time and seat availability, travellers should check the official booking system before travelling.

Official sources: Etihad Rail passenger information, Etihad Rail booking platform and Dubai RTA.