Etihad Rail's Next Stop: Dubai and Sharjah by Sept 30
If you\’re planning to travel across the UAE, Etihad Rail\’s expansion is great news. The rail network is set to open new stations in Dubai and Sharjah by September 30, 2026, significantly improving connectivity between the UAE\’s major population centers.
The next major milestone on the Etihad Rail calendar is September 30, 2026, when passenger services will formally expand to include two new stations, the Dubai Station, located near Jumeirah Golf Estates, and the Al Dhaid Station in Sharjah. This expansion is part of a phased rollout, with more stations opening through late 2026 and early 2027.
For the introductory Abu Dhabi, Fujairah route, passengers are being offered a 50 per cent launch discount. Comfort Class tickets start from Dh55 (regular fare Dh109), while Premium Class tickets start from Dh120 (regular fare Dh239). Within each class, passengers can choose from three fare types: Saver, Value, and Flex. Tickets for children and senior citizens are also available at discounted rates.
The route to Fujairah is already being hailed as a standout experience, offering a unique perspective on the UAE\’s diverse environment. The journey takes passengers from the urban environment of Abu Dhabi, across golden sand dunes, and culminates with a breathtaking passage through the Hajar Mountains on the approach to the east coast.
Etihad Rail is being designed as a fully integrated part of the UAE\’s public transport network, ensuring a seamless \”last mile\” experience for passengers. Each station will be linked with feeder buses, taxis, and local public transport routes.
Here\’s a breakdown of the upcoming station openings:
- November 30, 2026: Madinat Zayed and Liwa stations in Abu Dhabi\’s Al Dhafra region will open ahead of schedule.
- December 30, 2026: The network will further expand westward with the opening of Al Sila, Al Dhannah, and Al Mirfa stations, all in the Al Dhafra region.
- March 30, 2027: Sharjah University City Station will open, completing the first phase of the passenger network.
Here are the next steps to plan your journey:
- Check the Etihad Rail website for the latest updates on station openings and ticket prices.
- Plan your route and book your tickets in advance to take advantage of the launch discount.
- Familiarize yourself with the integrated public transport network to ensure a seamless journey.
