Etihad Rail’s much-anticipated passenger service is being tipped to deliver a major boost to tourism on the UAE's “hidden gem” east coast.
With operations set to start next year, the train will transform the long drive from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah into a comfortable 105-minute journey, shaving about an hour off the travel time.
It will also bring a place of ancient forts, epic mountain trails, the UAE’s oldest mosque, pristine beaches and diving centres within striking distance of people across the Emirates who do not have easy access to a car.
The National spoke to experts in multiple fields – from hoteliers to tourism experts – to gauge the potential effects of the new service.
“For years, Fujairah has been a bit of a hidden gem – stunning beaches, serene landscapes and a more laidback atmosphere,” said Nicolas Chammaa, general manager of Fujairah Rotana Resort and Spa in Al Aqah.
“But the challenge has always been accessibility. A comfortable, scenic train journey from Abu Dhabi or Dubai will open up a whole new level of ease and connection to our destination.
“I’ve personally heard from several guests who are looking forward to the launch of the train service,” he said. “There’s a real sense of anticipation.”
Excitement is building as ambitious plans take shape. Last weekend, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, travelled on an Etihad Rail train from Dubai to Fujairah.
How will Etihad Rail change the UAE?
Footage of the journey showed the train passing through spectacular scenery, giving a glimpse at what awaits passengers.
The network will connect 11 cities and regions and is expected to transport 36 million passengers by 2030.
The first four stations will be in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah. The Fujairah station is in Sakamkam, close to the city, which can serve as a base to access the cluster of hotels at Al Aqah and the Sharjah coastal towns of Kalba and Khor Fakkan.
Mr Chammaa said the launch would be a milestone “not just for the emirate, but for the tourism sector across the east coast” and there was “no doubt” the line would lead to an increase in visitors to its hotels. His hotel would also consider a shuttle bus to the station.
“A dedicated shuttle service from the new station to our resort – and potentially in collaboration with neighbouring hotels – would make a lot of sense,” said Mr Chammaa. “If it enhances the guest experience and brings added value, we’re on board.”
East coast benefits
Data from global travel intelligence platform Mabrian about visitors to Fujairah over the past five years shows that they are motivated by active tourism (22 per cent), culture and arts (21.8 per cent), sun and beach (21.1 per cent), and nature and outdoors (11.4 per cent).
Carlos Cendra, Mabrian partner and marketing and communications director, said train connectivity plays a crucial role in encouraging weekend getaways and short breaks while adding value to longer itineraries across the country.
“As our data intelligence reveals, Fujairah is well-positioned to capitalise on this,” he said.
Mr Cendra said the railway could be a “game-changer” for the region and potentially boost both domestic and short-haul visits.
“It will be particularly appealing to travellers, especially international ones, interested in exploring lesser-known parts of the UAE that were previously less accessible,” he said.
“The key will be ensuring that local travel services, from accommodation and dining to activities, are prepared to absorb and support the demand brought by this new infrastructure.”
Public transport integration
More about the service is expected to be revealed over the coming months. The operator has previously said trains will travel at up to 200kph and can carry about 400 passengers. Carriages will be equipped with Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, charging points and food and drink options.
Crucially, it is expected the railway will be integrated with existing public transport and taxis. This is important as the Al Aqah strip, for example, is more than a 40km drive north of the planned station.
“Rail access typically drives additional investment such as new hotels and leisure attractions,” said Martin Tillman, transport expert and founder of TMP Consult. He said it would be “transformational” for tourism across the UAE.
“The key from a transportation point of view is to ensure that there are multiple onward transport options between the station at Fujairah and its resorts, city centre and attractions so that visitors have a convenient, sustainable and seamless way to reach their chosen destination.”
What about the luxury service?
There are also plans to develop a luxury train service in the UAE. Announced in 2023, with the launch date yet to be revealed, Etihad Rail struck a deal with Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale for trains to cross the UAE from Fujairah to the Liwa desert in Abu Dhabi. The scheme echoes great railway journeys such as the Orient Express.
“Across Europe and the Americas there are many rail tour operators offering escorted and unescorted packages by rail with accommodation, local excursions and experiences,” said Harold Goodwin, a global expert in responsible and sustainable tourism. “Rail creates opportunities to enrich the tourist experience and generate revenue.”
Other countries have experienced the benefits of rail. Spain’s first AVE (high-speed) line opened between Madrid and Seville during the Expo 1992 event. Today, says Mr Cendra, Spain's national state-owned railway Renfe operates 335 high-speed and long-distance trains daily.
“It has been especially effective in connecting regions that previously lacked robust transport options such as northern Spain, while also enhancing accessibility to high-demand destinations like Catalonia, Andalusia and the Valencia region,” he said.
“According to official statistics, 39 per cent of AVE and long-distance train passengers travel for leisure purposes, demonstrating rail’s strong alignment with tourism demand.”
The rail journey from Abu Dhabi and Dubai to the east coast travels across rolling sand dunes, past palm tree-fringed villages before passing through the mountains and arriving on the coast. An arduous and tiring journey just a few decades ago will now be one of comfort and ease.
The passenger service has the potential to “significantly boost demand and open up new development opportunities across the region”, said Paul Stevens, chief operating officer for the Middle East, Africa and Turkey at hospitality group Accor.
“We see this as a strategic shift in connectivity that aligns with our long-term view of sustainable tourism expansion across the UAE, including in high-potential destinations like Fujairah,” he said.
Mr Chammaa said many people are just beginning to discover just how much Fujairah has to offer.
“With the new rail connection, more residents and travellers will finally get the chance to explore this side of the country,” he said.
“We’re proud to be part of a community that blends authenticity, nature, and hospitality – and we’re ready to welcome everyone who’s curious to experience it.”
