UAE makes rail history as first passenger train arrives in Abu Dhabi

The UAE has made history as the first passenger train from Fujairah arrived in Abu Dhabi's Mohamed bin Zayed City Station at 7:15 am on Tuesday.

The train arrived four minutes ahead of time.

Passengers alighting the train celebrated the milestone, adding how the high-speed line will change the way they travel, with journey time between the two Emirates cut to just an hour and 45 minutes.

As the train pulled out of the Fujairah station at 5:34 am, travellers were served traditional Emirati breakfast as they watched the sun rise.

Krishnie Manipalan, who was among the first passengers on the milestone ride, expressed pride at being part of history.

Gunjan, another passenger on the train, said the journey was smooth and watching the sunrise against the scenic background was the highlight of her journey.

Speaking to ARN News, Adhraa Almansoori - Executive Director of Commercial and Support at Etihad Rail, highlighted how June 30 will mark a special chapter in the UAE history. "Everyone's going to remember this day," she added.

"The first departure from Fujairah this morning is the moment a national vision becomes part of everyday life, giving people a new way to connect with one another, with opportunity and with the places that make our country so unique," highlighted Azza Alsuwaidi, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Rail.

"Years from now, today's passengers will be able to say they were there at the very beginning."

A total of six passenger services will operate on Tuesday, offering customers a safe, reliable and comfortable new way to travel between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi.

Over 10,000 Etihad Rail tickets were sold ahead of the start of the introductory phase of its national passenger network, officials said, with the majority of the seats for the upcoming trips over the next few days completely sold out.

Each train can accommodate up to 400 passengers, benefiting from guaranteed seating, onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat, generous luggage allowances and a Premium Class option.

Etihad Rail says it is also working with Abu Dhabi Mobility to integrate rail services with buses, taxis and other transport options, making it easier for passengers to complete their journeys.

The company announced earlier that Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station will open with the official launch on September 30, followed by stations in Al Dhafra on December 30. The route will be complete upon the opening of Sharjah Train Station on March 30, 2027.

It will connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE, from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east, passing through Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Journey times will be cut significantly - 57 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, and 105 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah.

Etihad Rail's first passenger on the maiden journey

Hamad Mansour Albloushi, who was nominated to take Seat 1 on Coach 1 following a nationwide campaign 'The Passenger Who Represents Us All', described the moment as a "privilege" he would never forget.

The Emirati healthcare professional was selected in recognition of his commitment to his community and humanitarian work through organisations including the Emirates Red Crescent and Jusoor Al-Khair. "When I sat down in Seat 1, Coach 1, it struck me that this wasn't just my journey, it was the beginning of millions of journeys that will follow. It's a privilege I'll never forget," he said. 

"I've been nominated because of my contribution to my community, but today I feel like I'm representing everyone who believes in the future of this country. Being the first passenger is an honour beyond words."