The Etihad Rail passenger station in Fujairah became the first to reach completion on the national network. The development marks a major milestone for the largest infrastructure project in the country.
Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, and Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, visited the site on Tuesday. The state news agency WAM reported the delegation toured the facility and reviewed the upcoming passenger services.
The station resides in the Sakamkam neighborhood near Al Hilal City. Official social media accounts shared videos showcasing the striking exterior, the expansive interior design, and operational ticket machines. During the visit, officials presented Sheikh Theyab with a sample ticket for a journey from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi. The delegation then boarded a train that departed the station against the backdrop of the local mountains.
Etihad Rail expects to launch passenger services later this year. The initial operational phase will connect Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Fujairah. The network will provide frequent trains on the Abu Dhabi to Dubai line, while the Fujairah route aims to bolster tourism and improve access to the east coast. Planners anticipate travel times of approximately 60 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, and 90 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.
Crews continue round-the-clock construction on the two other stations included in this first phase. These locations include Mohamed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi and Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai. Etihad Rail has not yet released specific details regarding timetables or ticket pricing.
The comprehensive passenger network will eventually include 11 announced stations stretching across the country. The remaining stations will become operational in phases. Azza Al Suwaidi, deputy chief executive of Etihad Rail Mobility, stated the rail network anticipates the needs of a growing nation. She noted planners selected station locations to complement existing population centers and support areas designated for future development.
Additionally, Etihad Rail previously announced plans for a separate, electrified high-speed passenger service connecting Abu Dhabi and Dubai. This future line aims to reduce travel time between the two emirates to 30 minutes.
During the Tuesday visit, the delegation also reviewed the progress of development projects in the village of Qidfa. The Emirates Council for Balanced Development manages these initiatives. The plans aim to elevate the profile of the village to attract 100,000 annual tourists and increase training opportunities for local youth.
