It’s easy to forget that you can’t simply hop on a train everywhere in the world—and that doesn’t just apply to tiny nations. In fact, there are about thirty countries where rail travel remains off the cards, either because the tracks are reserved strictly for freight or because a network simply doesn’t exist, as is the case in Iceland.
That’s why whenever a country decides to open up passenger rail, it’s big news for train enthusiasts. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the next to join the club, and the project is shaping up to be quite an adventure.
A 1,000km start
For many, 2026 will mark a historic turning point for transport in the Emirates. The launch of the country’s first passenger trains is scheduled for the end of the year, with the long-term ambition of eventually connecting to neighbouring countries. This is the bold bet placed by the authorities and Etihad Rail, the entity behind the national network.
The move is certainly timely. Anyone who has visited knows the country suffers from chronic traffic jams and the resulting pollution on its busiest motorways. The route between Dubai and Abu Dhabi is a prime example: the new rail link is expected to cut travel time to under 50 minutes (and potentially as little as 30 minutes if a proposed ultra-high-speed project gets the green light), compared to at least double that by car today.
As you might expect from a multi-billion dollar project in the UAE, the service will be the height of modernity. These high-speed trains, designed to carry around 400 passengers in total comfort, will initially run across a 1,000-kilometre network. The “flagship” line will link Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah to the port of Fujairah on the Gulf of Oman. Further branches are already being planned, including a cross-border connection to Sohar in Oman.
Beyond easing road congestion and slashing commute times, the rail network is a major play for the tourism industry. It offers visitors the chance to explore the entire country with ease, encouraging them to look beyond the bright lights of Dubai. It’s an ambitious gamble that experts believe will pay off; Etihad Rail is aiming to carry more than 35 million passengers a year by the end of the decade.
Hello! I’m Ben Fischer, a travel enthusiast who has journeyed far and wide to bring you unique and inspiring stories. Each destination is a new adventure for me, a chance to explore diverse cultures and share unforgettable experiences.
In my articles, I take you beyond mere descriptions of places. I share the encounters, special moments, and anecdotes that make each trip unique. My writing is an invitation to see the world through my eyes, blending practical tips with personal insights.
As a lifelong traveler, I approach each journey with respect and curiosity, eager to uncover the stories hidden in every corner of the globe.
