UAE Vice President Sheikh Mohammad Dubai and Fujirah ride the first passenger on Etihad Rail

In an important step towards re -starting the UAE’s transport landscape, his His Majesty Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktum, the vice -president, the Prime Minister and the ruler of Dubai, were in a passenger train between Dubai and Fujirah. This symbolic journey marks a significant phase in the Etihad Rail Project, one of the world’s most ambitious rail networks, which lays groundwork for complete passenger operations by 2026.

His His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktaum shared pictures on the X of his journey on the Etihad railway passenger train between Dubai and Fujarah, called it a memorable ride. He was welcomed by a delegation of Etihad Railway under the leadership of Chief Business Assistance Officer Saeed Alahababi, along with officials of several senior company. During the journey, Sheikh Mohammed was informed on the progress of the project and the major construction milestone. Speaking about Etihad Rail, he said:“Etihad Rail is an important economic artery that supports the UAE travel for the future. It is an important pillar in our vision to build an integrated transport network that strengthens the status of the UAE as a major logistics hub, providing convenience of movement of people and goods.”He described it as one of the country’s most important infrastructure projects, with far -reaching economic, social and developmental benefits that increase connectivity and support national goals. He said that the project reflects the spirit of the association and contributes to the stability, integration and quality of life in all Emirates. Passenger service is expected to start commercial operations in 2026.

Project Scope and Network Overview

Etihad Rail is a 1,200 km long National Railway Infrastructure Project, designed to connect major areas in the UAE and to extend to neighboring countries. With an investment of 40 billion (about $ 11 billion) AED will transport both network goods and passengers, which connects the Gulf coast to the Indian Ocean. The network will eventually expand the country from the inserts to Fujirah on the east coast on the Saudi border. The western section connects from Saudi Arabia to Ghevifat, while the Eastern Extension connects Oman through al -an. It detects important strategic places including:

The railway system is being built in two stages:

The network combines industrial hubs, sources of raw materials, ports and major urban centers. The major nodes include Khalifa Port, Kizad, Jebel Ali Port, and various inland cities, which facilitates an integrated logistics and transport framework for the UAE and beyond.

Passenger eel, a new era of mobility

Determined to start commercial operations in 2026, Etihad Rail Passenger Service represents a major jump in public transport. This will provide a fast, reliable and durable option for road and air travel, expected to work at a speed of up to 200 km/h. Passenger rail will spread to about 900 km, including 11 major cities and areas in all seven Emirates, including:

Trains will initially operate through four major stations: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Phujirah. Each train will be able to accommodate 400 passengers, with the annual ridership expected to reach 36.5 million by 2030. Design passenger emphasizes comfort and efficiency, promises less travel time and better access across the country. As part of the widespread target of the UAE to achieve pure zero emissions by 2050, the rail system is designed with stability in its origin, which offers a green option for road transport and helps reduce the carbon footprint of the country.Passenger service is also expected to improve daily dynamics, promote tourism and regional development, strengthen social relations in Emirates and support UAE’s broad logistics strategy.

Leadership commitment and strategic importance

His His Excellency Sheikh Web bin Mohammed bin Al Nahyan, President of Etihad Rail, highlighted the importance of Sheikh Mohammed’s participation, pay attention: Note:“We were honored to host his Queen Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktaum on a passenger train trip between Dubai and Fujairah. He emphasized the integral role of Sheikh Mohammed in the development of the project, from joining the “50” initiative in 2021 for the recent inauguration of the National Mal Network in 2023:“Today, we stand on the tail of a transformative era in the transport scenario of the United Arab Emirates and are very proud of the support obtained for this national project and appreciate it deeply,” He said, emphasizing the role of the project in strengthening connectivity and promoting the country’s economic integration.Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktaum’s visit to Etihad Rail Passenger Train highlights his direct participation in major infrastructure projects that add the entire country and support the UAE’s development plans.Last week, he made an undeclared visit at the Dubai Tram Station, riding the tram and entangled with passengers directly to assess public transport services. It follows a similar journey in 2023, when he quietly rides the Dubai Metro. Together, these trips give the example of leadership and governance an example of an approach to his hands, which reflects an familiar and consistent commitment to stay connected with the developments on the ground.