The United Arab Emirates’ first passenger rail network is now operating, following its launch by the joint venture Etihad Rail Mobility formed by Etihad Rail and Keolis.
Keolis and Etihad Rail launch the United Arab Emirates’ first passenger rail service
The United Arab Emirates’ passenger rail network enters service
The UAE’s domestic passenger rail network has started up, with the first operational phase linking Abu Dhabi to Fujairah beginning on 30 June 2026. The commissioning, which took place ahead of schedule, draws on the expertise of Keolis, at the heart of the project through Etihad Rail Mobility, the joint venture established with Etihad Rail
Keolis, a strategic partner of Etihad Rail
Announced in 2025, the partnership between Etihad Rail – the project owner and operator of the UAE’s rail network – and Keolis, one of the world’s leading shared mobility providers with operations in 14 countries, aims to set a new global benchmark in passenger transport. Combining Keolis’ international expertise with the world-class infrastructure developed by Etihad Rail, this partnership brings together operational know-how and high-quality facilities, with passenger satisfaction as its top priority.
Early commissioning thanks to an ecosystem of partners
The network has entered service ahead of schedule, less than five years after the project was launched. The initial phase has services running between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, before being progressively extended to 11 cities and regions across the country, with the aim of improving connectivity between communities. Etihad Rail Mobility draws on best practices and innovative solutions to ensure smooth operations and a reliable daily service, whilst offering an environmentally friendly mode of transport.
Alongside Keolis, a wide network of partners has contributed to this accomplishment to establish passenger rail as the transport mode of choice in the United Arab Emirates.