The UAE’s transport landscape has entered a new era with the launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. For residents, tourists, and business travellers alike, the new connection offers a faster, more convenient, and affordable way to travel between the two emirates.
With fares starting from just Dh39 from Dubai to Abu Dhabi and Dh55 from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, the service is expected to boost tourism and improve connectivity across the country.
Passengers arriving in Abu Dhabi will disembark at Mohamed bin Zayed City Station, strategically located opposite Dalma Mall and adjacent to Mussafah Bus Station. From there, travellers can continue their journey using Etihad Rail shuttle buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services to some of the capital’s most popular destinations.
Yas Island: Abu Dhabi’s Entertainment Capital
Yas Island remains one of the UAE’s biggest leisure and entertainment hubs, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Home to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld Yas Island, Yas Waterworld, Yas Mall, Yas Marina Circuit, Etihad Arena, and Yas Bay Waterfront, the destination offers something for every type of visitor.
- Getting there: Visitors can take a taxi or ride-hailing service directly from Mohamed bin Zayed City Station.
- Travel time: Approximately 30 to 40 minutes
- Estimated fare: Dh50 to Dh70
Once on the island, the complimentary Yas Express Shuttle provides easy transportation between major attractions, hotels, and entertainment venues.
Saadiyat Island: The Cultural Heart of Abu Dhabi
For art lovers and culture enthusiasts, Saadiyat Island is a must-visit destination.
The island is home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, the Natural History Museum, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, luxury beach resorts, and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
- Getting there: Taxi or ride-hailing service from Mohamed bin Zayed City Station.
- Travel time: 30 to 40 minutes
- Estimated fare: Dh60 to Dh75
Saadiyat continues to cement its position as one of the world’s leading cultural districts.
Al Qana: Family Entertainment by the Waterfront
Located just minutes from the station, Al Qana has emerged as a vibrant waterfront destination packed with attractions for families and visitors of all ages.
Highlights include:
- National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
- Adrenark Adventure Park
- Pixoul Gaming
- Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi
- Waterfront restaurants and cafés
- Getting there: Taxi or ride-hailing service
- Travel time: 10 to 15 minutes
- Estimated fare: Dh25 to Dh35
Corniche: The City’s Scenic Waterfront
The Abu Dhabi Corniche remains one of the capital’s most iconic attractions, offering beaches, cycling tracks, waterfront dining, and spectacular skyline views.
Etihad Rail passengers can book a dedicated shuttle service from Mohamed bin Zayed City Station to the ADNOC Headquarters area on the Corniche.
- Shuttle fare: Dh10
- Travel time: Approximately 45 minutes
Visitors can also opt for taxis, with fares ranging between Dh55 and Dh70 depending on the destination.
Reem Island: Shopping and Snow in the Desert
Reem Island has become one of Abu Dhabi’s fastest-growing residential and leisure destinations.
Its biggest draw is Reem Mall, which is home to Snow Abu Dhabi, one of the region’s largest indoor snow parks.
- Getting there: Dedicated Etihad Rail shuttle service
- Shuttle fare: Dh10
- Travel time: Approximately 55 minutes
Taxi journeys typically take 25 to 30 minutes and cost around Dh50 to Dh65.
ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
Business travellers can benefit from direct shuttle connections to ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, one of the Middle East’s leading exhibition and conference venues.
The centre hosts major events throughout the year, including trade exhibitions, conferences, and international conventions.
- Shuttle fare: Dh10
- Travel time: Around 30 minutes
Taxi fare ranges from Dh30 to Dh45.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the world’s most beautiful mosques, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque remains a must-visit landmark for anyone arriving in Abu Dhabi.
Visitors can explore its grand architecture, cultural exhibitions, and Souq Al Jami’.
- Getting there: Taxi or ride-hailing service
- Travel time: 15 to 20 minutes
- Estimated fare: Dh30 to Dh40
Zayed International Airport
Travellers connecting to flights can reach Zayed International Airport in approximately 20 minutes by taxi from Mohamed bin Zayed City Station.
Fares typically range from Dh45 to Dh60.
Future plans are expected to see Etihad Rail directly connected to the airport, creating an even more seamless travel experience.
A New Chapter in UAE Travel
The launch of Etihad Rail’s Abu Dhabi-Dubai passenger service represents a significant step forward in the UAE’s public transport network. By connecting major cities and providing convenient onward transport options, the service is making Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, entertainment districts, and business hubs more accessible than ever before.
Whether you’re heading to the roller coasters of Yas Island, the museums of Saadiyat, the waterfront charm of the Corniche, or a major event at ADNEC, Etihad Rail is helping transform the way people travel across the UAE.
