Etihad Rail has sold more than 70,000 tickets since launching passenger services in the UAE on 28 February 2026. On average, customers are booking journeys 12 days in advance.
The figures, announced on 3 August, provide an early indication of passenger demand as the UAE’s national railway continues its introductory operational phase.
Etihad Rail said booking patterns suggest passengers are increasingly planning journeys around rail services rather than using the train solely as a new travel experience. Business travel, family journeys and leisure trips are among the uses being reported.
Azza Al Suwaidi, Chief Operating Officer of Etihad Rail, said:People aren't simply trying the train out of curiosity. They're planning around it. When customers are booking nearly two weeks ahead, it tells us passenger rail is already becoming part of how people organise their journeys. That is an important sign that rail is beginning to establish itself as a natural travel choice across the UAE.
The railway has also attracted a range of passenger groups, including families, business travellers, school groups, leisure travellers and People of Determination.
Etihad Rail said it will adjust capacity as demand develops during the introductory operational phase, while continuing to monitor passenger trends and focus on safety, reliability and customer experience.
Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial at Etihad Rail Mobility, said:One of the most striking things we've seen is the diverse range of passengers choosing the train for their journeys across the UAE. This diversity highlights the role the passenger train is playing as a comfortable and reliable transport option that meets a wide range of travel needs, whether for family journeys, business travel, educational trips, leisure experiences, or exploring new destinations across the UAE.
The passenger network is scheduled to expand over the coming months. Dubai and Al Dhaid stations are due to open on 30 September 2026, followed by Liwa and Madinat Zayed on 30 November.
The remaining Al Dhafra stations are scheduled to open on 30 December 2026, while Sharjah is planned to join the passenger network on 30 March 2027.
The service initially opened with four stations: Fujairah, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi and Al Dhannah. The expansion will extend passenger rail connectivity across additional parts of the UAE as Etihad Rail continues the rollout of its national passenger service.
