The Etihad Rail station in Dubai was inaugurated on Monday, marking the official launch of the national rail network as passenger services are set to begin between Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah on September 30, 2026.

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Etihad Rail, inaugurated the Dubai station in the presence of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The UAE President had boarded the Etihad Rail train from Abu Dhabi to Dubai on a journey prior to the official operation of the service. During the journey, he was briefed on the train's operating system and its national objectives, as well as the quality of services provided. Upon his arrival at the station, the UAE President met with a number of national staff working on the project and took commemorative photos with them.

During a tour of the station, Sheikh Hamdan, accompanied by Sheikh Theyab, was briefed on its facilities, operational system, and integrated passenger experience, from arriving at the station and booking tickets to completing the journey procedures, boarding the train, and continuing the journey to the final destination.

Sheikh Hamdan also shared a photo of his Etihad Rail ticket. Dated September 28, the ticket showed a departure set for 2.11pm from the Dubai station and arrival at 3.13pm at the Abu Dhabi station, a journey of 1 hour and 2 minutes. The ticket was of the comfort saver category, which is currently priced at Dh39.

Sheikh Hamdan stressed the Etihad Rail station in Dubai adds a new national gateway that enhances its connection with the capital and the rest of the country's cities.

"Connecting Dubai to the national Etihad Rail network enhances its presence at the heart of the country's movement, supports its pivotal role in the national economy, and consolidates its position as a global centre for business, tourism and investment."

(Source: Khaleej Times)