Etihad Rail has begun trial operations of its passenger train ahead of the official launch of the service tomorrow, Wednesday, 30 September 2026, as part of operational preparations to link Abu Dhabi and Dubai via the UAE national rail network.
The trial route runs from Abu Dhabi station to Mohamed Bin Zayed City station and then to Al Yalayis station in Dubai, to test the readiness of the stations, trains and route before the official service begins. The trial covers operating procedures, the passenger experience and ease of movement, as well as connections with other transport networks and modes, according to a post on the Emirates News Agency (WAM) website.
Athraa Al Mansoori, Executive Director of Commercial Affairs and Support at Etihad Rail Passengers, said the line between Abu Dhabi and Al Yalayis station in Dubai is an addition to the transport system, adding that Al Yalayis station has been completed in preparation for the start of the service.
She noted that the Dubai service starts tomorrow, with 10 daily trips between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, in addition to 6 trips between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
The Dubai service follows the launch of the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah line on 30 June. Al Yalayis station in Dubai is linked directly to the Dubai Metro network by a pedestrian bridge about 400 meters long, giving passengers access to Jumeirah metro station and from there to the Red Line and the emirate's metro network.
Etihad Rail stations offer transport options including parking, taxis, buses and private transport companies, making it easier for passengers to travel between stations and their final destinations. The passenger rail service also caters to the needs of people of determination, the elderly, families, students, employees, visitors and tourists.
Linking Etihad Rail stations with Dubai's transport networks aims to provide additional options for moving between the railway and other modes of transport within the emirate.
To view the post on the Emirates News Agency website, click here.
