Photo : Dubai Government Media Office
In a historic and proud moment for the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, travelled by train from Dubai to Fujairah. This train is part of the UAE's big national railway project called Etihad Rail. The journey shows how much His Highness cares about building strong, smart, and modern infrastructure that helps connect people across all the emirates.
The Etihad Rail passenger train is expected to begin full service by 2026. This train ride by His Highness marks a big step forward in making the national railway system ready for everyday use. It shows how the UAE is preparing for a better and more connected future.
Speaking during the journey, Sheikh Mohammed said, “Etihad Rail is an important lifeline for our country’s future. It will help people and goods move easily, and it will make the UAE stronger as a global trade and transport hub.”
He added that the train project supports the UAE's goals to grow in a smart and clean way. It connects people, improves life in the emirates, and helps protect the environment. His Highness also thanked the hard-working team behind the project, saying their work makes the nation proud.
Etihad Rail is not just about trains. It’s about connecting people, jobs, cities, and even dreams. Once running, the trains will:
Link 11 cities and regions across the UAE.
Help people travel faster, safer, and in comfort.
Run at speeds of up to 200 km per hour.
Carry up to 400 passengers per train.
Reduce traffic on the roads and cut down pollution.
Bring new opportunities for work, tourism, and community life.
By 2030, it’s expected that 36.5 million passengers will be using these trains every year.
The first four stations will be built in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah. These stations will act as big travel centers. Trains will also connect places like Al Sila, Ras Al Khaimah, and other important areas across the UAE.
The trains will be modern and eco-friendly, offering people a comfortable way to travel with less harm to nature. The project supports the UAE’s 2050 goal to reach net zero emissions, meaning a cleaner and greener country.
During the visit, Sheikh Mohammed was greeted by top leaders of Etihad Rail. He was given updates about the construction and the progress so far. One of the main speakers, Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail, said the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed has been very important. He said the project is moving the country forward and connecting all parts of the UAE in a strong and powerful way.
He added that from the launch of the “Projects of the 50” in 2021 to the start of freight services in 2023, the UAE has made big steps. Now, the country is almost ready to welcome passengers on board.
Etihad Rail is not only a transport project — it is a symbol of national pride. It reflects how the UAE’s leaders are thinking ahead, making life better for everyone, and building strong ties between people and places. The new train network will make it easier for families to visit each other, for students to go to school in different emirates, and for tourists to explore the country in a fun and easy way.
This journey by His Highness is more than a ride — it is a signal that the future is on track, and the UAE is moving fast toward it.
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