A Complete Guide On How To Book Etihad Rail Tickets In The UAE

Etihad Rail has opened a new chapter for public transport in the UAE. For the first time, residents and visitors can book passenger train tickets for inter-emirate travel within the country. The first passenger service will run between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, giving travellers a new way to move between the capital and the east coast without using the road.

The introductory Etihad Rail passenger service starts on 30 June 2026. During this first phase, bookings are available for journeys between Abu Dhabi Station in Mohamed Bin Zayed City and Fujairah Station in Al Hilal City. More stations, including Dubai, Al Dhaid, Al Dhafra and Sharjah, will be added later in the phased rollout.

Where Can You Book Etihad Rail Tickets?

Passengers can book Etihad Rail tickets through the official digital and station-based channels. The easiest option is to use the Etihad Rail website or mobile app.

Current booking options include:

• Etihad Rail official website
• Etihad Rail mobile app: Android, iOS
• Ticket vending machines at stations

The website and app allow passengers to search for routes, select travel dates and departure times, compare classes, enter passenger details, and make online payments. Station vending machines are useful for travellers who prefer to buy tickets in person or need help before boarding.

Which Etihad Rail Route Is Open First?

The first passenger route connects Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. This is part of the introductory operational phase before the wider national passenger rail network expands across the UAE.

The first route includes:

• Abu Dhabi Station: Located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City
• Fujairah Station: Located in Al Hilal City, Fujairah

The Abu Dhabi to Fujairah journey takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. This gives passengers a faster, more relaxed alternative to driving, especially during busy travel periods.

Step-By-Step Guide To Book Etihad Rail Tickets

Booking Etihad Rail tickets is simple and works similarly to booking a flight, bus or long-distance train ticket in other countries.

1. Open The Etihad Rail Website Or App

Start by visiting the official Etihad Rail website or opening the Etihad Rail mobile app. Go to the booking section and begin a new journey search.

You may need to sign in or create an account to manage your booking later. This is useful if you need to view your ticket, change travel details, check updates or access your journey information again.

2. Select Your Departure And Arrival Stations

For now, passengers can book tickets between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. Choose your departure station and destination from the available options.

For example, you can select:

• Abu Dhabi to Fujairah
• Fujairah to Abu Dhabi

As more stations open, the booking system will show more route options, including Dubai, Al Dhaid, Al Dhafra and Sharjah.

3. Choose Your Travel Date

Select your preferred travel date. For the first phase, tickets are available for travel from 30 June 2026 onwards.

If you are planning a round trip, select your return date as well. It is better to book early, especially on weekends and public holidays, and during the first few weeks of service, as popular times may sell out quickly.

4. Pick Your Train Timing

After selecting your route and date, the system will show available train timings. Choose the departure time that works best for your trip.

Current direct train timings are:

Abu Dhabi to Fujairah

• 8:19 am
• 1:53 pm
• 6:39 pm

Fujairah Dhabi 5:34 am:34 amm

• 10:59 am
• 5:28 pm

Both Abu Dhabi and Fujairah stations operate daily from 5 am to 11 pm.

5. Choose Your Travel Class

Etihad Rail currently offers two travel classes on the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route: Comfort Class and Premium Class.

Comfort Class is the more affordable option and is suitable for regular travellers, families and commuters. It includes comfortable seating and access to the train’s standard onboard facilities.

Premium Class offers a more spacious and relaxed travel experience. It is better suited for passengers who want extra comfort, especially on longer trips.

Introductory fares currently start from:

• AED 55 for Comfort Class
• AED 120 for Premium Class

These are promotional launch fares, so that prices may change after the introductory period.

6. Select Your Ticket Type

After choosing your class, you can select the ticket type. This is important because it decides how flexible your booking will be.

Etihad Rail offers three ticket tiers:

• Saver: Best for fixed travel plans. This is usually the cheapest option, but it does not allow changes or refunds.
• Value: Best for some flexibility. It includes seat selection and allows changes within certain conditions.
• Flex: Best for maximum flexibility. It allows more changes, refunds and transfer options.

Value costs an extra AED 10, while Flex costs an extra AED 20. If your plans may change, Value or Flex could be a better choice than Saver.

7. Enter Passenger Details

Next, enter the passenger details required for the booking. This usually includes:

• Full name
• Email address
• Mobile number
• Passenger category

Make sure the details match the passenger’s ID documents. UAE residents should carry their Emirates ID, while tourists should keep their passports with them.

8. Add Optional Extras

Before payment, the booking system may show optional extras. One useful add-on is the Etihad Rail shuttle bus service in Abu Dhabi.

The shuttle bus costs AED 10 and connects Abu Dhabi Station with key areas, including:

• ADNOC Headquarters
• ADNEC Centre
• Reem Mall

This makes the journey easier for passengers who do not want to drive to the station or rely only on taxis and ride-hailing apps.

9. Pay Online

Once all details are confirmed, proceed to payment. Etihad Rail supports online payment through common digital methods.

Payment options include:

• Credit card
• Debit card
• Phone wallet

After payment, the passenger receives a digital ticket. Keep this ticket saved on your phone or email, as it will be needed for station entry and boarding.

How To Use Your Etihad Rail Ticket At The Station

After booking, arrive at the station with enough time before departure. Since this is a new rail service, first-time passengers should arrive early to familiarise themselves with the station layout, find the right platform, and complete any checks.

At the station:

• Keep your digital or printed ticket ready
• Scan the ticket or e-pass at the automated gate
• Follow the signs to the correct platform
• Check live timetable screens for updates
• Ask the help desk if you need support

Passengers should avoid arriving at the last minute, as trains depart on fixed schedules.

Etihad Rail Baggage Allowance

Etihad Rail allows adults and children aged three and above to carry up to two luggage items free of charge.

The allowance includes:

• One personal item, such as a handbag or laptop bag
• One carry-on bag up to 55cm x 40cm x 23cm

The personal item should fit under the seat, while the carry-on bag should be stored in the overhead luggage area. Passengers should label their bags and make sure they can lift and store them without blocking aisles or emergency exits.

Infants under three years old do not have a separate luggage allowance.

What To Expect on Board Etihad Rail

Etihad Rail trains are designed for comfortable intercity travel. Each train can carry up to 400 passengers and is built for speeds of up to 200km/h.

Onboard features include:

• Guaranteed seating
• Wi-Fi
• USB charging ports
• Power sockets
• Tray tables
• Luggage storage
• Family seating areas
• Seats for pregnant women
• Clean and modern interiors

The Fujairah route is also expected to be one of the most scenic train journeys in the UAE. Passengers can see parts of the Hajar Mountains, farms, small towns and landmarks along the route.

Etihad Rail Station Facilities

Etihad Rail stations are designed to make the passenger journey as smooth as possible from arrival to boarding.

Station facilities may include:

• Ticket vending machines
• Information and support desks
• Waiting areas
• Family waiting areas
• Prayer rooms
• Toilets
• Food and beverage outlets
• Retail spaces
• Car parks
• Pick-up and drop-off areas
• Taxi and ride-hailing zones
• Bus stops
• First aid rooms

The Fujairah Station is located in Al Hilal City and is close to Fujairah International Airport. Abu Dhabi Station is located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City, making it accessible from different areas of the capital.

When Will More Etihad Rail Stations Open?

The passenger rail network will expand in phases after the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah introductory service.

The expected rollout is:

• 30 June 2026: Abu Dhabi–Fujairah passenger service begins
• 30 September 2026: Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station open
• 30 December 2026: Al Dhafra stations open
• 30 March 2027: Sharjah Train Station opens

Once the network expands, Etihad Rail will make inter-emirate travel easier for commuters, tourists and residents who often travel between cities.

Tips Before Booking Etihad Rail Tickets

Before booking your ticket, check the route, date, timing, class and ticket type carefully. Choose Saver only if your travel plans are set in stone. If your plans may change, Value or Flex is safer.

Useful booking tips:

• Book early during weekends and holidays
• Check both departure and return timings
• Compare Comfort and Premium fares before paying
• Choose Flex if you need refund or transfer options
• Arrive early at the station
• Keep your Emirates ID or passport with you
• Save your digital ticket on your phone
• Check the app or website for live schedule updates

Stay tuned to the UAE’s most popular auto blog for more information about the latest happenings in all of the Emirates.

FAQs

Etihad Rail has opened a new chapter for public transport in the UAE. For the first time, residents and visitors can book passenger train tickets for inter-emirate travel within the country. The first passenger service will run between Abu Dhabi