etihad rail tickets
Planning to travel across the UAE quickly and conveniently in 2026? With the much-anticipated launch of Etihad Rail passenger service, understanding the details around Etihad Rail tickets is essential for early planners. This article gives you a complete overview of what to expect in terms of ticket booking, pricing, travel classes, and updates.
| Project Name | Etihad Rail |
|---|---|
| Project Name | Etihad Rail |
| Launch Year (Passenger) | 2026 |
| Route Length | 900 km (total network) |
| Initial Route | Abu Dhabi ↔ Dubai (30 minutes travel time) |
| Other Cities Covered | Sharjah, Fujairah (expanding to all 7 emirates) |
| Top Speed | Up to 200 km/h (Standard), 350 km/h (High-Speed Rail – Future) |
| Ticket Booking Options | Etihad Rail website, Etihad Rail app, RTA platforms, Ticket Kiosks |
| Expected Fare Range | AED 50 – AED 120 (depending on route) |
| Travel Classes | Economy, Business, First Class |
| Payment Methods | Nol Card, Debit/Credit Card, Mobile Payment, Station Kiosks |
| Stations (Phase 1) | Abu Dhabi, Dubai (Jumeirah), Sharjah (University City), Fujairah (Sakamkam) |
| Annual Ridership Goal | 36.5 million passengers by 2030 |
| Amenities | Wi-Fi, infotainment, food & beverage, air-conditioning, lounges |
| Environmental Benefit | Reduce CO₂ emissions by 21% by 2050 |
| Operator | Etihad Rail (in collaboration with Spain’s CAF and UAE’s RTA) |
Etihad Rail Project at a Glance
Etihad Rail is the UAE’s national railway network designed to connect all seven emirates through a 900-kilometre-long railway line. While freight services are already operational, the passenger service is scheduled to begin in 2026. Once operational, it will revolutionise public transport with fast, eco-friendly inter-emirate connectivity.
Etihad Rail Passenger Service: What to Expect
- Launch Year: 2026
- Phase 1 Route: Abu Dhabi to Dubai in just 30 minutes
- Cities Covered Initially: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah
- Projected Ridership: 36.5 million passengers annually by 2030
The service is expected to drastically reduce commute times while offering modern comforts and multiple travel class options.
Etihad Rail Ticket Booking Details
When can I book Etihad Rail tickets? Tickets are expected to go live closer to the 2026 launch.
Where to book:
- Etihad Rail official website
- Dubai RTA channels (suggesting integration with nol cards)
- Etihad Rail app (if launched)
- Ticket kiosks at train stations
Read more: Dubai Metro Tickets 2025: 7 Best Options, Prices & Where to Buy
Estimated Etihad Rail Ticket Prices
While official ticket prices haven’t been released yet, here are some projected estimates:
| Route | Estimated Price (AED) | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi – Dubai | AED 50 – 75 | 30 minutes |
| Dubai – Fujairah | AED 65 – 90 | 50 minutes |
| Abu Dhabi – Fujairah | AED 90 – 120 | 1 hour 40 minutes |
Train Classes and Ticket Types
Etihad Rail will offer three main travel classes:
- Economy Class: Budget-friendly, for daily commuters
- Business Class: More legroom and onboard amenities
- First Class: Luxury cabins with infotainment, gourmet dining and lounge access
Additional options may include:
- Daily, weekly, and monthly passes
- Student, senior citizen, and group discounts
Read more: Dubai to India Ticket Price Today (2025 Guide): Best Deals, Fast Flights & Top Booking Tips
How to Pay for Etihad Rail Tickets
- Nol Card: Likely to be accepted as Dubai’s RTA is the payment partner
- Debit/Credit Card: At kiosks and online
- Mobile Payment: Through the Etihad Rail app (if launched)
- Third-party travel platforms
Planned Etihad Rail Stations
Initial confirmed passenger stations:
- Sakamkam, Fujairah
- University City, Sharjah
- Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai
- Central Abu Dhabi
Future connections include:
- Al Maktoum International Airport
Station amenities:
- Business lounges
- Retail stores
- Food courts
- Family facilities
Benefits of Booking Etihad Rail Tickets
- Fast travel: Cut down inter-emirate travel time by up to 40%
- Eco-friendly: Less traffic and reduced carbon emissions
- Affordable: Projected low fares for daily commuters
- Comfortable: Spacious seating, onboard services, and entertainment
How to Book Etihad Rail Tickets (Step-by-Step Guide)
Once the Etihad Rail passenger service launches in 2026, here’s how you’ll be able to book your tickets easily:
Step 1: Visit an Official Booking Platform
- Go to the Etihad Rail official website
- Or use the Etihad Rail mobile app (expected at launch)
- Alternatively, access ticketing via the Dubai RTA app or website
Step 2: Select Your Travel Details
- Choose your departure and destination stations
- Pick a travel date and time
- Select the class of service (Economy, Business, or First Class)
Step 3: Choose Your Seat (If Available)
- Some classes may allow seat selection during booking
- Choose from window, aisle, or group seating (subject to availability)
Step 4: Add Passenger Details
- Enter full name, ID/passport number, and contact information
- If booking for multiple people, add each passenger’s info
Step 5: Apply Discounts (If Applicable)
- Select student, senior, or group discounts (if available)
Step 6: Make Payment
- Pay using one of the following methods:
- Nol Card (if linked to payment system)
- Credit/Debit Card
- Apple Pay / Google Pay
- Payment kiosks at train stations (for in-person purchases)
Step 7: Receive Your Ticket
- After successful payment, you’ll receive:
- An e-ticket by email/SMS
- A QR code in the mobile app for scanning at the station
Step 8: Arrive at Station & Board
- Arrive 15–30 minutes before departure
- Scan your ticket or QR code at the gate
- Board the train and enjoy your ride!
Etihad Rail 2026 – Upcoming Passenger Service
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Launch Year | 2026 |
| Project Scope | Passenger service connecting all 7 Emirates via a 900 km rail network |
| First Routes | Abu Dhabi – Dubai, Dubai – Fujairah, Abu Dhabi – Fujairah |
| Travel Time (Abu Dhabi – Dubai) | 30 minutes |
| Projected Annual Ridership | 36.5 million passengers by 2030 |
| Maximum Train Speed | 200 km/h (regular); 350 km/h (high-speed project under planning) |
| Station Locations (Phase 1) | Abu Dhabi, Dubai (Jumeirah Golf Estates), Sharjah (University City), Fujairah (Sakamkam) |
| Train Classes | Economy, Business, First Class |
| Booking Methods | Etihad Rail Website, Dubai RTA Portal, Kiosks, Potential Mobile App |
| Payment Options | nol Card, Credit/Debit Card, Mobile Wallets |
| Expected Amenities | Onboard Wi-Fi, Infotainment, Food & Beverages, Charging Ports, Lounges |
Etihad Rail Tickets FAQs
Q: When will Etihad Rail tickets go on sale?
A: Ticket sales are expected to begin shortly before the 2026 launch.
Q: Can I use my nol card?
A: Likely yes, as RTA is the payment partner.
Q: Will there be a mobile app?
A: Yes, a dedicated booking and travel app is expected to be launched.
Q: Will discounts be available?
A: Anticipated discounts for students, seniors, and frequent travellers.
Q: What about booking changes or cancellations?
A: These details will be revealed in the final ticketing policy.
Where to Stay Updated
- Etihad Rail Official Website
- Time Out Dubai and Abu Dhabi
- Dubai RTA announcements
- UAE news outlets like Khaleej Times and Gulf News
Conclusion
Etihad Rail tickets will soon provide residents and tourists in the UAE with a fast, safe, and modern way to travel between emirates. As the 2026 launch approaches, stay tuned for updates to be among the first to book your seat on this historic journey.
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