When does the Dubai to Abu Dhabi train start running?
The Dubai station at Jumeirah Golf Estates opened 30 September 2026, extending Etihad Rail's passenger network, which began running between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on 30 June 2026. Both routes are now in service.
How long does the train take between Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
About 64 minutes, at speeds up to 200 km/h.
How far apart are Dubai and Abu Dhabi by train?
The rail route covers around 150 km, close to the roughly 140 km road distance via Sheikh Zayed Road.
Who operates the Dubai Abu Dhabi train?
Etihad Rail Passenger Services — a joint venture between Etihad Rail and Keolis, a French public transport operator.
What was Etihad Rail DB?
Etihad Rail DB was an earlier joint venture between Etihad Rail and Deutsche Bahn, which acted as shadow operator and knowledge-transfer partner for the freight network's first stages before Etihad Rail became fully self-operating in 2022.
Who built the Dubai–Abu Dhabi railway?
China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) built the civil and track works connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai, alongside other contractors including Ghantoot Transport and General Contracting Company (GTGC) on different sections of the national network.
What train classes are available?
Comfort and Premium. Premium adds wider seating, a quieter cabin and an included meal with a children's menu option.
How much do tickets cost?
Dubai–Abu Dhabi fares are AED 39 (about $11) for Comfort Class and AED 109 (about $30) for Premium Class. On the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route, Comfort starts from $15 and Premium from $33.
How many trains run per day?
10 daily trains run between Dubai and Abu Dhabi (5 in each direction), and 6 daily trains run between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
How do I book a ticket?
Search and book through the widget above, powered by highspeedtrains.com — the Dubai–Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi–Fujairah routes are both open for booking now.
Where is the Dubai train station?
Jumeirah Golf Estates, southern Dubai, connected to the Dubai Metro by a roughly four-minute footbridge.
Where is the Abu Dhabi train station?
Mohamed bin Zayed City, the most centrally located of Abu Dhabi's Etihad Rail stations.
Can I reach the train from Dubai Airport?
Not directly, but Jumeirah Golf Estates station is about 30 minutes from Al Maktoum International Airport by road.
Is the train faster than driving?
Yes for most travelers — driving typically exceeds an hour and a half with traffic, versus about 64 minutes by train.
What's the luggage allowance?
Overhead space for smaller bags, dedicated space for larger suitcases — similar to a coach or domestic flight.
Are pets allowed?
Etihad Rail has not published a pet policy for passenger services yet — confirm directly with Etihad Rail before travel.
Will there be a faster train in future?
Yes — a high-speed line planned for around 2030 is designed to cut the trip to about 30 minutes at up to 350 km/h, reportedly with around six stations including Yas Island and Zayed International Airport.
Does the train connect to other UAE cities?
Yes — Sharjah's Al Dhaid station opened alongside Dubai on 30 September 2026. Still to come: Liwa and Madinat Zayed (Al Dhafra region) on 30 November 2026, Al Mirfa, Al Dhannah and Al Sila (also Al Dhafra) on 30 December 2026, and Sharjah's University City Station on 30 March 2027. Al Ain and Ras Al Khaimah are planned as the network completes its 11-city reach.
Is rail travel more environmentally friendly than driving?
Yes — rail transport emits significantly less CO2 per passenger than driving, and Etihad Rail's network is projected to cut national greenhouse gas emissions by over 2.2 million tonnes a year.
