Travelers moving between the capital of the United Arab Emirates and its main tourist hub can now make the trip in just over an hour. Etihad Rail has officially launched its passenger route between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, connecting the two emirates by train for the first time. Tickets cost AED 39 (€9.35) for comfort class and AED 109 (€26.13) for premium seats.
Because the main stations are located outside city centers, local transit connections have been arranged for passengers. In Abu Dhabi, shuttle buses priced at AED 10 (€2.40) carry travelers from the Mohamed Bin Zayed City Station to key downtown locations, including the Corniche, Reem Mall, and the ADNEC Centre. In Dubai, passengers arrive at Jumeirah Golf Estates, where they can transfer directly to the city metro system.
The new route marks the latest stage of expansion for Etihad Rail, which launched its first passenger services in late June between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on the eastern coast. Further stations will open later this year, starting with Al Dhafra on December 30, followed by Sharjah on March 30. Additional future stops include Al Mirfa, Liwa, and Al Sila near the Saudi Arabian border.
The route is part of wider efforts to improve transport across the region. While proposals exist for a network connecting all six Gulf states, the UAE and Saudi Arabia are currently the only Gulf nations operating passenger trains. Regional expansion plans continue to move forward, including a high-speed line linking Riyadh and Doha expected to open in 2031.