UAE: World news will come with Etihad Rail Launch Full Metro, Bus, Taxi Integration and NOL Access in 2026

The UAE’s ambitious Etihad Rail Project is entering a new phase with the announcement of complete integration in the existing public transport network in Dubai and other Emirates. Set for passenger operation by 2026, this major development promises integrated ticketing systems for smooth, more connected travel, metro, buses, taxis with taxis, and unified ticketing systems for unmatched commuters.

Dubai’s uninterrupted integration with public transport network

The UAE’s 1,200 km national railway project will offer direct connectivity between Etihad rail, major cities and ports. According to a Gulf News report, Dubai has confirmed that all the upcoming passenger stations within the city will be fully integrated with the existing public transport systems as part of the phased development of the project.This means that once operations, Etihad railway stations in Dubai will be linked directly to feeder buses, metro lines and taxi services at every station, leading to a smooth transition to other forms of transport by rail. Passengers will not need to rely on multiple transfer or different systems, dramatically to simplify the final-mile connectivity.Integration also spreads to other Emirates. For example, Abu Dhabi stations will directly connect the city routes and public buses, while Sharjah’s railway stations will easily accessible through their local transport terminals and provide better connectivity to Dubai. In Fujirah, a similar connection is planned to ensure region-wide harmony.The purpose of this integration is to maximize the computer facility and build a durable, interconnected urban transport system. The comprehensive objective is to keep the UAE in position as a regional leader in the dynamics ready for the future.

Integrated tickets with NOL Card Access

An important feature of this integration is the integration of the ticket system. In collaboration with RTA, Etihad will support the use of Dubai’s NOL card in the entire public transport ecosystem including rail trains, metro, buses and taxis.This development means that passengers will be able to use a single card to travel in different ways of transport, without the difficulty of purchasing several tickets or purchasing switching platforms. The system will often remove obstacles associated with fragmented payment methods and is expected to greatly promote public transport use.With acting as a single access point with NOL card, the government is not only improving the user experience, but also carrying forward its goal of building a smart, more integrated dynamics structure. This step aligns with national stability goals, as integrated access encourages widespread use of large -scale transit on private vehicles.

Nationwide transport connectivity in Emirates

While Dubai plays a central role, the vision of Etihad Rail covers the entire UAE. Passenger services will be launched in 2026, initially connecting Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujarah. The full 900 km network will eventually link 11 cities in all seven Emirates, which will offer integrated, inter-entertaining connectivity, sewn for seamless local access with each location. For example:

The railway line, which started construction in 2016 and is being developed in stages at a cost of AED 40 billion (USD 11 billion), is expected to offer high -speed passenger services and freight capabilities. Once completed, it will expand the entire length of the country and serve as a central pillar in the development of the UAE’s infrastructure.This level of coordination between national rail and local transport network displays the country’s commitment to reduce congestion, cut emissions and create a scalable transport model for the future.

Passenger rollout timeline and service integration

Passengers are expected to experience the integrated services of Etihad Rail, starting in 2026, with the launch of early passenger operations. The rollout will be phased, focusing on high-traffic corridors to ensure maximum impact from the first day. The first phase of service will combine four major Emirates, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Phujirah through strategically located stations. These initial connections will demonstrate the efficiency of the integrated transport model, combining single, metro, buses and taxis in single, user -friendly systems. As the network expands, the complete operation will eventually extend to 900 kilometers, which connects 11 cities in all seven Emirates. This broad coverage will ensure that most of the residents of UAE are within the easy access to the railway and its connected transport services. The service will work with 13 trains, each of which will take 400 passengers, and is estimated to serve 36.5 million riders annually by 2030, which indicates strong demand and wide adoption. Importantly, integration with local transport systems is being rolled out in parallel with the rail network, allowing passengers to benefit from the first day of operation, when supporting services supporting the infrastructure outpases.

Vision, milestone, and what’s next

The Etihad Rail Project is a foundation stone for the widespread development goals of the United Arab Emirates, economic, social and environmentally. The 1,200 km network is designed to strengthen regional connectivity, strengthen trade and logistics and reduce dependence on road transport.Earlier last week, UAE Vice President and ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktum, personally reviewed the progress of passenger services. During a visit between Dubai and Fujarah, they were informed on the major construction milestone, which reflects close participation and commitment of the leadership for the project.Set to launch passenger services in 2026, Etihad Rail has been engineered to align with UAE’s net zero from 2050 initiative. The system is being made with stability at its core, which is a clean, efficient option for traditional road-based transport. Railways are expected to have a permanent impact on national productivity and environmental health, with their ability to move rapidly people and goods across the country.Once commissioned, it will introduce the integrated transport model:

The UAE is not only investing in the infrastructure, but is also explaining how people move forward, with a future which is more associated with a future, is durable and compatible with a commuter.