As Etihad Rail prepares to launch its long-awaited passenger service later this year, the UAE’s first national railway network is set to do more than just connect cities—it promises a new way for people to discover the country’s hidden gems.
The passenger railway network will link 11 stations across the UAE, stretching from Al Salama near the Saudi border to Al Dhaid in Sharjah, and from the western region of Abu Dhabi to Fujairah on the eastern coast. The route will pass through desert cities, coastal communities, cultural hubs, and emerging destinations.
A press release on Thursday announced seven new stations in addition to the four previously revealed. Here’s what the Etihad Rail map looks like:
Al Salama: Located in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region, near the UAE-Saudi border. Al Salama is a quiet town of about 12,000 residents with local markets and small residential areas—a hidden gem until now.
Al Dhannah: Formerly known as Al Ruwais, this fishing village has transformed into a thriving urban residential area. Positioned 250 km west of Abu Dhabi, it became strategically important to ADNOC in 1970 as a self-contained urban hub for its industrial workforce.
Al Mirfa: Once known for pearl divers and fishermen, Al Mirfa is now a vibrant coastal community, home to the Al Dhafra Water Sports Festival, featuring kiteboarding, wakeboarding, and kayaking competitions.
Madinat Zayed: 180 km from Abu Dhabi, known for the Al Dhafra Festival with camel races, traditional markets, and a tranquil residential community.
Muzayri’a: Near Liwa Oasis and the Empty Quarter, this culturally rich town features the 1950s-era Muzayri’a Fort and popular activities such as dune bashing, camel treks, birdwatching, and camping.
Abu Dhabi: Located in Mohammed bin Zayed City near Musaffah, featuring peaceful residential areas and two shopping hubs—Mazyad Mall and Dalma Mall.
Al Faya: Home to the inland container depot, strategically located between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Etihad Rail freight services here are expected to transport 20 million tonnes of goods by 2030.
Dubai: The sole station in Dubai will be at Jumeirah Golf Estates, a residential and sports community also connected to the metro, providing seamless city access for passengers.
University City, Sharjah: Serving thousands of students from multiple institutes in this strategic location.
Al Dhaid: An oasis town known for palm farms irrigated by centuries-old falaj channels from the Hajar Mountains. Famous for fresh produce, camel marathons, and the Friday market.
Sakamkam, Fujairah: A serene wadi settlement located 7 km from Fujairah city, known for its archaeological sites and historic fort.
This national railway network represents a transformative step in UAE mobility, combining connectivity, cultural discovery, and sustainable transportation for the future.
