Etihad Rail confirms that passenger services will reach Dubai for the first time from 30 September 2026, with trains running between Al Yalayis station in Dubai and Abu Dhabi Central station. The 57-minute journey is the fastest surface connection yet between the two Emirates, significantly faster than the typical 90โ120 minute drive along Sheikh Zayed Road in moderate traffic.
What the New Route Looks Like
The Dubai terminus opens at Al Yalayis, located in the Jebel Ali corridor in western Dubai. The station is served by Dubai Metroโs Route 2020 (Red Line extension), making it accessible from the city centre, Dubai Marina, and Expo City without needing a car or taxi.
From Al Yalayis, trains run directly to Abu Dhabi Central station, which connects to the Abu Dhabi bus network. The journey covers approximately 150 kilometres and operates at speeds of up to 200 km/h.
Initial timetable (from 30 September): Services will operate on a 2-hour interval during the launch period, with frequency expected to increase to 30-minute peak intervals in early 2027 as the network reaches full operational readiness.
Ticket Prices and Booking
Etihad Rail has announced an introductory fare of AED 35 (approximately USD 9.50 / GBP 7.50) one-way in standard class for the full Abu DhabiโDubai route. A business class fare of AED 90 (approximately USD 24.50 / GBP 20) is available in specially configured carriages with wider seats and refreshment service.
Tickets are bookable through the Etihad Rail app and at station kiosks. The national ID (for UAE residents) or passport number is required to book; no physical ticket is issued โ boarding is via QR code on your phone or printed slip.
Why This Matters for Visitors
Most tourists staying in Dubai have historically limited their UAE trip to a single emirate. The 57-minute train link makes a day trip to Abu Dhabi โ including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Corniche โ genuinely practical from a base in Dubai.
Equally, visitors staying in Abu Dhabi can now reach Dubai without hiring a car or taking a shared taxi. This opens up the possibility of splitting a weekโs stay across both cities without the cost of a separate airport transfer.
The launch also connects with ongoing Etihad Rail expansion: the network is planned to extend to Ras Al Khaimah and further to Muscat, Oman in subsequent phases.
For getting around Dubai, transport options, and what to see and do in each emirate, see our Dubai guide and our Abu Dhabi guide. Our practical guides cover inter-city transport, entry requirements, and day trips from both cities.