Etihad Rail, a pivotal player in the UAE’s transportation landscape, has achieved a significant milestone by conducting its first-ever passenger train journey from Abu Dhabi to Al Dannah. This strategic move aims to enhance transportation efficiency and support the burgeoning industrial sector in the emirate. The ongoing collaboration between Etihad Rail and ADNOC (Abu Dhabi National Oil Company) further reinforces their commitment to fostering seamless connectivity and bolstering the transportation infrastructure.
Anticipating The Passenger Rail Service
We are pleased to host ADNOC’s executive leadership and His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNOC, on the first rail journey of Etihad Rail connecting Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah. This… pic.twitter.com/mWKZfaGufL
— Etihad Rail (@Etihad_Rail) January 25, 2024
While an official commencement date for the UAE’s passenger rail service is yet to be confirmed, the announcement in 2022 revealed that Sakamkam in Fujairah would be the first passenger station. The passenger trains are designed to operate at speeds of up to 200kph, accommodating approximately 400 passengers. This extensive network will seamlessly link 11 cities and areas across the UAE, presenting a revolutionary mode of travel with the potential to reshape daily commutes and intercity journeys.
Enhanced Passenger Experience
Passenger carriages on the Etihad Rail service are poised to offer a range of amenities, including Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, charging points, and catering options. This thoughtful approach ensures a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience for diverse passenger demographics, encompassing families, workers, and tourists. The anticipated travel time projections indicate a journey of 50 minutes between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Also, it will take approximately 100 minutes from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah. This promises a significant time savings for commuters.
Luxury Train Travel On The Horizon
أدنوك والاتحاد للقطارات تسيّران أول رحلة قطار لنقل الركاب بين مدينتي أبوظبي والظنة، بموجب الاتفاقية الاستراتيجية المُبرمة بينهما في نوفمبر 2023 لتوفير خدمات السكك الحديدية بين الوجهتين، وتوسيع خيارات النقل المستدام في الإمارة. pic.twitter.com/s9lEOhSxqG
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) January 25, 2024
Etihad Rail and Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale unveiled plans for a premium train service. Also, it will add a touch of luxury to rail travel. This “rail cruise” will traverse the UAE from Fujairah in the east to the Liwa desert in Abu Dhabi. It will comprise 15 opulent carriages. This visionary initiative aims to redefine the concept of train travel, offering an unparalleled blend of comfort and sophistication.
Overall, Etihad Rail’s foray into passenger services marks a significant leap forward in the evolution of the UAE’s transportation landscape. Also, it promises a future where seamless connectivity and efficient travel become integral components of daily life.
Cover Image Courtesy: Abu Dhabi Media Office
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First Published: January 27, 2024 12:47 PM