Etihad Rail Map: UAE Train Connecting Every Town and City

The Etihad Rail map is transforming travel across the UAE in 2026, linking major cities, towns, and strategic locations through a modern rail network. With 11 confirmed passenger stations, the nationwide system improves access to airports, city centres, industrial zones, and educational institutions. This project not only enhances mobility but also supports economic growth, tourism, and regional connectivity.

For residents and travellers, the rail network represents a more sustainable, reliable, and convenient alternative to road travel. Here’s everything you need to know about the stations, routes, and practical benefits.

Etihad Rail Map: Complete List of Stations and Their Importance

1. Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi

Mohammed Bin Zayed City is the most centrally located Etihad Rail station in Abu Dhabi and will serve as a key access point to the capital’s city centre. The station is around 30 minutes from Zayed International Airport, making it a convenient option for travellers arriving or departing by air. Several residential and industrial areas sit close to the station, including Mussafah, Zayed City, Shakhbout City, and Bani Yas, helping connect commuters from across the emirate.

2. Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai

Dubai’s only Etihad Rail station will be located at Jumeirah Golf Estates, a luxury gated community in the southern part of the city. The station is positioned along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, offering easy road access for travellers. One of its key advantages is its proximity to the Dubai Metro, allowing passengers to transfer seamlessly into Dubai’s inner-city public transport network.

3. University City, Sharjah

The Sharjah station will be located in University City, an area home to several major educational institutions. The location is expected to serve thousands of students, staff, and visitors travelling to and from the area. The station is approximately 10 minutes from Sharjah International Airport, strengthening connectivity between air and rail travel in the emirate.

4. Al Hilal area, Fujairah

The station at Al Hilal marks the easternmost point of the Etihad Rail passenger service. It will provide a direct rail link to Fujairah city and the nearby area of Qidfa, improving accessibility to the UAE’s east coast.

5. Al Sila, Abu Dhabi

Al Sila is the westernmost station on the Etihad Rail map and holds long-term strategic importance. Located in Abu Dhabi’s Al Dhafra region, the area lies on the UAE’s border with Saudi Arabia. The town of Ghuweifat is located here, and Al Sila is expected to play a significant role once the wider GCC Railway Project becomes operational.

6. Al Dhannah, Abu Dhabi

Located around 240 kilometres from Abu Dhabi city, Al Dhannah, formerly known as Ruwais, is one of the largest cities in the Abu Dhabi emirate. It is a major industrial hub, particularly for the oil and gas sector, with significant operations linked to ADNOC and Capstone Real Estate.

7. Al Mirfa, Abu Dhabi

Al Mirfa is a coastal town in Abu Dhabi’s western Al Dhafra region. It is a key settlement along the coast and will benefit from improved rail connectivity to the rest of the country.

8. Madinat Zayed, Abu Dhabi

Madinat Zayed is a major administrative and industrial centre in the Al Dhafra region, located about 180 kilometres southwest of Abu Dhabi city. The town plays an important role in supporting nearby oil fields and regional industries. It is connected by the E45 road, which links to the E11 highway in the north and the Liwa Oasis in the south, as well as a main road leading to Ghayathi. The Al Dhafra Festival, which features a camel competition, takes place in Madinat Zayed.

9. Mezairaa, Abu Dhabi

Mezairaa, also known as Mezair’ah, is a village and historic area within the Liwa Oasis in the south-west of the Abu Dhabi emirate. Situated near the edge of the Rub’ al Khali desert, the area is known for its traditional mud-brick forts, including Mezair’ah Fort. The region offers desert landscapes and palm groves, making it both a cultural and natural attraction.

10. Al Faya

Al Faya is located between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, with road links to Dubai. Its position makes it a key transit point between major population centres.

11. Al Dhaid, Sharjah

Al Dhaid is a town and oasis in the Central Region of Sharjah, around 60 kilometres east of Sharjah city. Located on a desert plain at the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, the area is known for agriculture and traditional settlements. The station will help improve connectivity between Sharjah’s interior regions and the rest of the UAE.

How Etihad Rail Benefits You in Everyday Life

• For Commuters: Enjoy faster, more reliable rail travel that cuts down your reliance on cars and crowded highways.

• For Tourists: Move effortlessly between airports and city centres, making travel across the UAE more convenient.

• For Business Travelers: Stations near industrial and business hubs simplify logistics, meetings, and daily work trips.

• For Students & Residents: Direct rail connections to universities and schools make daily commutes stress-free and efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Q1: When will Etihad Rail passenger services start?

Passenger services are gradually rolling out, with full connectivity expected by 2026.

Q2: Are there facilities for disabled passengers?

Yes, all stations comply with accessibility standards.

Q3: Can I use Etihad Rail for freight as well?

Currently, passenger services are the focus; freight integration is planned in future phases.

Q4: How do I buy tickets?

Tickets can be purchased via the Etihad Rail app, at station kiosks, or on online portals.

Conclusion

The Etihad Rail map is a game-changer for travel in the UAE, connecting cities, towns, and key economic hubs. From Abu Dhabi’s central areas to Fujairah’s east coast, the network ensures faster, smarter, and sustainable mobility for commuters, tourists, and businesses.

Plan your next journey with Etihad Rail today! Discover station locations, schedules, and travel tips on the ArabWheels blog. Stay ahead with expert insights, make smarter travel choices, and experience seamless connectivity across the UAE.