Etihad Rail unveils exclusive seating for families ahead of launch

Etihad Rail has unveiled details of its passenger services ahead of the launch later in 2026, with exclusive seating options for families and strong Wi-Fi connectivity for business travellers and daily commuters.

Azza AlSuwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Mobility, said the seating options will allow families to spend quality time together. "That shared time is one of the most powerful benefits of passenger rail and feels apt given 2026 is the UAE Year of the Family," she added. 

The cabins will also offer luggage storage for those planning weekend trips and staycations, and run on "a consistent timetable".

"For commuters, we know that reliability is everything. Etihad Rail will offer a journey people can plan around. One that gives them useful and usable time back, rather than taking it away,” explained AlSuwaidi.

The rail network 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.

It will also significantly cut journey times between the emirates, with 57 minutes to reach from Abu Dhabi to Dubai, and 105 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah.

The high-speed line is also expected to connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai in just 30 minutes at speeds of up to 350 km per hour.

"This is a service built to reflect who we are as a nation - safe, welcoming, high-quality, and designed to serve people for generations. It reflects where we have come from, as well as where we are travelling to," said AlSuwaidi.