A passenger train stands at the newly inaugurated Abu Dhabi station ahead of the launch of the UAE's first passenger rail service.
The United Arab Emirates UAE, will commence its first passenger rail service on June 30, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to strengthen inter-emirate transportation and improve connectivity.
State news agency WAM reported on Tuesday that the initial phase of operations will connect Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, with plans to expand services to other emirates as additional stations become operational.
The announcement followed the inauguration of the Abu Dhabi passenger station by Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed.
According to authorities, standard class tickets between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah will cost 55 dirhams, while premium class fares will be 120 dirhams. Ticket sales opened on Tuesday.
The Dubai station is scheduled to begin operations on September 30, while the main station in Sharjah is expected to open on March 30, 2027.
Sheikh Khaled said the railway project reflects the country’s vision of an integrated transport network that supports economic growth, improves mobility and promotes investment, tourism and urban development.
The passenger fleet consists of 13 trains, each capable of carrying up to 400 passengers.
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Authorities said feasibility studies would be conducted to determine future expansion to other emirates.
The launch represents a major milestone in the UAE’s long-term rail development plans after earlier proposals, including the Hyperloop project between Dubai and Abu Dhabi announced in 2016, failed to materialise.
The development also comes amid renewed efforts to improve rail connectivity across the Gulf region. In December, Saudi Arabia and Qatar signed an agreement to develop a high-speed railway linking Gulf capitals.
Meanwhile, the $3 billion railway project connecting Abu Dhabi and Oman’s Sohar Port has reached about 40 per cent completion, according to an update released in April.
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