Sharjah is the most recent addition to the itinerary for the Etihad Rail passenger train, which connects the Emirates. We could even be able to utilise it to get to Oman in the future. The University City of Sharjah will be close to the recently announced Sharjah station.
While freight services are now offered on the existing rails, Etihad Rail is gradually working towards the establishment of passenger services. Actually, Etihad Rail made its inaugural passenger voyage from Abu Dhabi to Al Dhannah in January of this year.
Prior to searching for tickets, note that ADNOC employees and contractors will be the only ones able to use the Etihad Rail passenger service.
Speaking of tickets, the most recent event was the announcement on Wednesday, February 14, of an MOU that Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority and Etihad Rail had signed. With the use of its NOI card technology, the RTA will be creating the ticketing and fare system for Etihad Rail.
Etihad Rail Passenger Train
The passenger train, which would expedite, reduce emissions, and improve convenience of travel between the Emirates, is gaining traction in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE’s National Rail Network is currently complete and in use for commercial purposes, according to the Etihad Rail website.
It is anticipated that 36.5 million passengers will pass through once it opens for business. Everyone is on board. Additionally, the passenger train’s elegant appearance has been made public.
Examining the Technical Details
The Spanish train manufacturer CAF and Etihad Rail are working together to design and produce cutting-edge passenger trains. These stylish cars have amazing features, like:
- Capacity: To meet the increasing demand for inter-emirate travel, each train can accommodate more than 400 passengers in luxury.
- Speed: The trains can reach up to 200 km/h, which drastically cuts down on the amount of time it takes to get between big cities.
- Arrangements for Seating: Travellers can choose from a range of seating arrangements to fit their needs and budget. There will be first-class, business-class, and economy-class carriages available, offering a cosy and customised ride.
An Extensive Network Connecting the Emirates
The passenger service on Etihad Rail will have a vast network that crosses 11 important UAE cities and areas. Major stops along the road, which runs from Al Sila in the east to Fujairah on the western coast, include:
- Al Ruwais
- Al Mirfa
- Dubai
- Sharjah
- Al Dhaid
By facilitating smooth connectivity between the emirates, this extensive network hopes to make it simpler for locals and visitors to take advantage of the wide range of attractions in each area. Imagine getting to Fujairah from the capital city in an hour and forty minutes, or from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in just fifty minutes. People’s daily travel patterns in the UAE will surely change as a result of these quick travel durations.
Beyond Speed: The Allure of Train Travel
There’s more to the Etihad Rail passenger service than just quick journey times. Travelling by train offers a distinctive and entertaining experience. What travellers can anticipate is:
- Comfort and Convenience: A comfortable ride is guaranteed thanks to the roomy seating, generous legroom, and contemporary conveniences.
- Scenic Views: From the gorgeous coastline to the desert dunes, train travel offers passengers an opportunity to experience the UAE’s breathtaking scenery.
- Environmentally Friendly: Compared to driving a car, rail transport is far more sustainable, cutting carbon emissions and fostering a better future.
- Decreased Traffic Congestion: Etihad Rail seeks to reduce traffic congestion on highways, especially between large cities, by enticing more people to commute by train.
A Catalyst for Economic Growth and Tourism
The UAE’s economy and tourism industry are anticipated to be significantly impacted by the Etihad Rail passenger service. How to do it is as follows:
- Increasing Business Activity: Better communication between cities will make commerce and business travel easier, which will increase economic activity throughout the emirates.
- Increased Potential for Tourism: Having easier access to a wider range of locations would draw more tourists to the UAE and encourage them to visit different parts of the country.
- Real Estate Development: As stations grow and connection increases, there may be a rise in opportunities for new construction in the vicinity of stations, resulting in the creation of thriving commercial areas.
A Glimpse into the Future
The Etihad Rail passenger service is a vision for the future of the United Arab Emirates, not just a transportation project. This large-scale endeavour demonstrates the nation’s dedication to:
- Sustainability: Encouraging car-less travel and other eco-friendly means of transportation.
- Economic Diversification: Building a strong and effective transport system to sustain economic expansion outside of the oil industry.
- Social Development: Building linkages between communities and encouraging a spirit of cohesion throughout the emirates.
FAQs
What is Etihad Freight Rail?
By moving materials and goods around the Emirates, the goods rail service, which is now in use, keeps large trucks off UAE roadways. We’ll be travelling throughout the Emirates by train in no time at all.
With a fleet of more than 1,000 waggons that can carry a variety of commodities and 38 locomotives, the goods trains are now in operation throughout the United Arab Emirates.
Who is designing the passenger train design for Etihad Rail?
Spain’s CAF is designing the Etihad Rail passenger train, and it will be manufactured, supplied, and maintained in accordance with European standards. Each train will have more than 400 seats and travel at up to 200 kph. There will be first-class, business-class, and economy seating segments available for selection.
In what ways will the Etihad Rail contribute to sustainability?
The National Rail Network is expected to cut vehicle transport carbon dioxide emissions by 21% by 2050, according to Etihad Rail. Verifying that 300 trucks will be removed off UAE highways by a single rail trip, reducing traffic and emissions.
Where will the first passenger train station built by Etihad Rail be located?
In Sakamkam, Fujairah, the centre of Fujairah city, the first passenger train station is planned.
Where will Etihad Rail travel?
Eleven cities and areas in the UAE will be connected by the Etihad Rail passenger train. It will pass through Al Ruwais, Al Mirfa, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhaid, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi on its way from Al Sila to Fujairah.