UAE Launches First National Passenger Rail Network, Desert Express Begins Operation
June 29, Kathmandu – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has inaugurated its first national passenger rail service. This long-awaited express train network has now been opened to the public and will connect 11 cities across the region.
The Middle Eastern country’s inaugural rail service departed from Fujairah, located on the Gulf of Oman, at 5:34 a.m. local time on Tuesday. The inaugural journey covered approximately 250 kilometers, arriving at the Mohammad bin Zayed City Station in the capital, Abu Dhabi, at 7:19 a.m., taking 1 hour and 45 minutes.
According to CNN, operator Etihad Rail announced the start of its “initial operational phase.” This first service was the inaugural run among six scheduled services planned for the network’s opening day.
Before launching this new rail service, Etihad Rail had already sold over 10,000 tickets, as stated in a company press release.
The company promises customers a “modern travel experience” featuring air-conditioned coaches, onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reserved seating. For greater comfort and amenities, premium class services have also been made available.
Fares start at 55 dirhams (approximately $15) for Comfort Class and 120 dirhams ($33) for Premium Class. Currently, Etihad Rail operates 13 trains, each with a capacity to carry 400 passengers.
Etihad Rail’s Chief Operating Officer, Azza Al Suwaidi, said in a statement, “The first departure from Fujairah this morning represents a moment where the national vision becomes part of everyday life. It provides people with a new way to connect with each other, opportunities, and the places that make our country so unique. Today’s travelers will proudly say for years to come that they witnessed the very beginning of this journey.”
What are the future plans?
The network will expand later this year with the opening of the Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station on September 30. Three months afterward, the Al Dhafra Station will also become operational. According to Etihad Rail, the Sharjah Station is slated to open by the end of next March, completing the entire route.
This 900-kilometer network is a significant part of the UAE’s broader plan to reduce carbon emissions and develop a sustainable transportation system. Once all stations are operational, the network will link the Gulf of Oman, across the Emirates to the Persian Gulf, connect inland areas of Abu Dhabi, and extend to Al Ghuwaifat near the Saudi Arabian border.
Transport Integration and Expert Opinions
Emirates citizens are known for their love of cars, so launching a rail system also required finding suitable options to transport people from stations to their homes or other destinations.
Abdullah Hamad Al Ghaffeli, acting Director General of the government body responsible for transportation, the Integrated Transport Centre, stated they have been collaborating with Etihad Rail. He said, “We have connected passenger rail to Abu Dhabi’s extensive public transport network, facilitating seamless and continuous travel for residents and visitors using buses, taxis, and other modes of transportation.”
Though the rail service has launched in the UAE, the impact on international tourism still remains to be seen.
Mark Smith, founder of the popular train website “The Man in Seat 61” and a rail travel expert, commented, “To be honest, I’m not entirely sure of its significance yet. At this stage, it doesn’t connect Abu Dhabi to the outside world, I don’t hear many people planning to travel there, and I wonder if enough people actually want to visit the destinations the new rail line serves?”