My first Etihad Rail journey gave me a sense of how trains knit nations together
In the days prior to the launch of Etihad Rail passenger trains between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah earlier this summer, The National explored a host of angles about what to expect from the nation’s newest form of public transport, from what you might find at the network’s stations to ticketing arrangements and what the experience would be like on board. One official told us that the possibilities…
My first ride on Etihad Rail revealed how trains can effectively connect nations. In the weeks leading up to the debut of passenger trains in Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, The National delved into what to anticipate from the country's newest public transport system. One official described the network's possibilities as "endless" and expressed that the experience of traveling by train was "special".
The excitement surrounding this historic moment was palpable among the first passengers. As I boarded a train from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, one of the regular daily services, the air was filled with excitement. Passengers captured views of the Hajar Mountains, took selfies, and cheered as the train passed through tunnels. The return journey to Abu Dhabi also evoked a similar sense of joy, passing camel farms and emerging developments.
The on-board service was exceptional, with the train's speed continuously interrupted by interesting points along the route - from desert to development, farms to forecourts, and mountains to traffic. One could argue that the initial excitement of the "new" prompt such delight among passengers, but a change in perspective while traveling provides a unique vantage point of the country.
Previous critics who doubted the need for a rail network were proven wrong, with the metro in Dubai transporting over 2.8 billion passengers since its launch in 2009, accounting for 40% of public transport use. Etihad Rail has already sold tens of thousands of tickets, with demand expected to grow further as more stations open. Beyond curiosity, the train network offers economic and social benefits worth billions of dirhams, catering to visitors, businesses, residents, and possibly even pets.
The experience proved to be a time-efficient alternative to driving along the coast. Hotel staff were enthusiastic about being served by train, hinting at the widespread acceptance of this modern public transport system. The train's impact extends beyond convenience, as it could potentially revolutionize the way fans and teams travel to football matches across the UAE.
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