Etihad Rail station in Abu Dhabi to connect directly to airport

Plans are underway to create a direct link between Abu Dhabi's Mohamed bin Zayed City train station and Zayed International Airport. Etihad Airways and Etihad Rail recently signed an agreement to investigate opportunities for improving transportation connections between the airport and the train station. This agreement was revealed on Tuesday at the Arabian Travel Market conference in Dubai, according to state news agency Wam.

The collaboration aims to streamline transfers between the airport and the national railway network, enhancing travel integration and convenience for passengers. Etihad Rail and Etihad Airways will explore various initiatives to simplify travel and reinforce Abu Dhabi's role as a gateway to exploring the broader UAE. The partnership will focus on simplifying air travel connections with destinations across the UAE, boosting tourism, increasing convenience for travelers, and contributing to Abu Dhabi's long-term economic development, said Arik De, chief revenue and commercial officer at Etihad Airways.

The agreement will also encompass the exploration of integrated air and rail booking experiences and station-based passenger services, creating a more seamless end-to-end travel experience from departure to destination. Azza AlSuwaidi, chief operating officer at Etihad Rail, emphasized that the country is continuously developing an integrated national transport system to keep pace with its comprehensive growth and support its future ambitions.

She highlighted that recognizing the future of transport lies in integrating various modes of mobility, the partnership with Etihad Airways is a significant step towards strengthening the connection between rail and aviation, supporting tourism growth, economic diversification, and sustainable development across the UAE.