The first Etihad Rail passenger service between Dubai and Abu Dhabi departed at 6:14am on Wednesday from Al Yalayis station, marking a milestone for the UAE's national rail network. The journey took roughly 64 minutes, carrying the first group of residents and tourists to use the new intercity passenger line.
Among the early riders was Anna, a Greek tourist, who said she chose the first train so she could spend the rest of the day exploring Abu Dhabi, adding that the timing worked out perfectly. Mehreen, a student who had to wake up earlier than she does for school, said the early start was worth it because it felt like being part of history. Tayyaba, an Indian expat, said she had been waiting to ride the Dubai train since the project was first announced.
Passengers on the opening day were given complimentary meals. The launch coincided with the opening of the Al Dhaid station, which gives residents of the area an easier route to both Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. Under the published schedule, two morning trains run from Dubai to Abu Dhabi within an hour of each other, with services continuing into the afternoon.
The new route is part of Etihad Rail's wider plan to connect UAE cities with high-speed passenger trains, a network that had previously been used only for freight. Officials describe the launch as a major step in the country's transport infrastructure development, with more routes expected to be added to the network in the coming months.