The UAE has officially entered a new era of public transportation with the launch of the country’s first passenger rail service, operated by Etihad Rail. Connecting Abu Dhabi and Fujairah in just one hour and 45 minutes, the long-awaited service offers residents and visitors a fast, comfortable, and sustainable way to travel across the Emirates.
One of the biggest highlights of the new railway is its pet-friendly travel policy. Unlike many traditional rail services in the region, Etihad Rail now allows passengers to travel with their domestic pets, making it easier for pet owners to explore the UAE without leaving their companions behind.
Pets Are Welcome
Passengers can bring domestic pets including cats, dogs, and even falcons, provided they remain inside an approved carrier throughout the journey. The carrier must not exceed 55 cm × 40 cm × 23 cm and counts as the passenger’s standard cabin baggage allowance. Each traveler is permitted to bring one pet carrier onboard.
Etihad Rail has also confirmed that certified assistance dogs are allowed to travel, although advance booking through the customer service center is required.
A Comfortable New Way to Travel
The inaugural passenger route links Mohamed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi with Fujairah, reducing travel time between the two destinations to approximately one hour and 45 minutes. The trains are designed to operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h while offering spacious seating, modern interiors, and onboard amenities aimed at providing a premium travel experience.
Public response has been overwhelmingly positive, with more than 10,000 tickets reportedly sold before the official launch, reflecting strong demand for rail travel in the UAE.
More Cities to Join the Network
The Abu Dhabi–Fujairah route marks only the beginning of the UAE’s national passenger rail network. Additional stations and routes are expected to open in phases, eventually connecting 11 cities and regions across all seven emirates. The expansion is expected to provide a reliable alternative to road travel while supporting the country’s sustainability and economic development goals.
What Travelers Should Know
While pets are now welcome onboard, Etihad Rail has introduced several travel guidelines to ensure passenger comfort and safety. Pets must remain inside their carriers for the entire journey, and bicycles, e-scooters, and e-bikes are not permitted on passenger services. Families can bring one folded stroller per child free of charge, while accessible facilities are available for passengers requiring mobility assistance.
A Milestone for UAE Transport
The launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger service represents one of the most significant developments in the UAE’s transport sector. Beyond providing a faster and more sustainable travel option, the decision to accommodate pets reflects the evolving needs of modern travelers and pet-owning families.
As the rail network continues to expand, Etihad Rail is expected to reshape inter-emirate travel, making journeys across the UAE more convenient, environmentally friendly, and inclusive for both passengers and their four-legged companions.
