Etihad Rail and Miral, the operator of Yas Island's attractions in Abu Dhabi, have signed a memorandum of understanding to link the UAE's rail network directly with the island's theme parks. Under the deal, passengers arriving by train at Mohamed bin Zayed City Station will be able to board a complimentary shuttle bus called "Yas Express," taking them straight to four major Yas Island venues: Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World and SeaWorld.
Lisa Goswell, senior vice president of sales at Miral Destinations, described the plan as a solution to the long-standing "first and last mile" problem in rail travel — the gap travellers face after stepping off a train and still needing another mode of transport to reach their final destination. Adhraa Almansoori, executive director of commercial and support at Etihad Rail Mobility, said the partnership marks the first step toward a broader digital connection between the rail network and Yas Island's transport system.
The initiative sits within Miral's five-year, Dh12 billion investment programme to expand Yas Island. While an exact launch date for the shuttle and fare details for the train journey itself have not yet been announced, both parties stressed that the shuttle service for rail passengers will be free of charge.
The move continues Etihad Rail's broader expansion across the UAE, aimed at reducing reliance on private cars and making it easier for both tourists and residents to reach major attractions — including Yas Island — without needing to rent or drive. For Dubai and Abu Dhabi residents planning a day trip to the Yas parks, the new connection could make travel planning noticeably simpler.