Dubai Set to Join UAE Passenger Rail Network With 57-Minute Journey to Abu Dhabi.
Dubai: With just one month to go, Dubai is set to join the UAE’s passenger rail network as Etihad Rail prepares to open a long-awaited connection between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The new Dubai Etihad Rail station is scheduled to open in September, with journeys between the two emirates expected to take around 57 minutes. Located near Jumeirah Golf Estates, the station’s strategic position could make it an important transport hub for southern Dubai.
Here’s what we know so far about Etihad Rail’s Dubai station, its location and the connections that could help establish it as a key transport hub for the southern parts of the emirate.
When will Etihad Rail’s Dubai station open?
Dubai Al Yalayis Station, the latest addition to the Etihad Rail passenger network, is scheduled to begin operations on September 30, 2026.
The station will open alongside Al Dhaid Station in Sharjah, marking the next major phase in the rollout of the UAE’s national passenger rail network. This follows the launch of passenger services between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah on June 30.
Where is Dubai’s Etihad Rail station?
Dubai Al Yalayis Station is located near Jumeirah Golf Estates in southern Dubai, along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Its location is significant as E311 is one of Dubai’s main north-south highways, providing road access to the station from several parts of the emirate.
Which Dubai communities are near the Etihad Rail station?
The station is located close to several established and developing residential communities, business districts and major destinations, including:
- Jumeirah Golf Estates
- Al Furjan
- Dubai Investment Park (DIP)
- Green Community
- Dubai Production City
- Expo City Dubai
- Dubai South
Will Etihad Rail connect to Dubai Metro?
One of the key features of the new Dubai Etihad Rail station will be its planned connection to the Dubai Metro network. Dubai Al Yalayis Station is located close to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on the Red Line, offering passengers the potential for a convenient connection between the national rail network and Dubai’s urban metro system.
Etihad Rail has previously confirmed plans to connect the Dubai passenger station with the Metro network, linking the UAE’s national railway with Dubai’s existing urban public transport system.
How will the Etihad Rail and Metro stations be connected?
A dedicated pedestrian bridge is being built to connect Dubai Al Yalayis Station with Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station. The footbridge will allow passengers to move between the two networks more easily, providing a convenient connection for those continuing their journey after arriving by train.
Why is the Etihad Rail Dubai station location strategic?
Located near Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai Al Yalayis Station could become an important transport hub for southern Dubai, providing easier access to the UAE’s national passenger rail network for residents and visitors in the surrounding communities.
E311 access: Dubai Al Yalayis Station is located along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, giving motorists access to the station from several parts of Dubai.
Close to Dubai Metro: The station is near Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on the Red Line, with a dedicated pedestrian connection being built between the two. This will allow passengers to transfer between Etihad Rail and the Dubai Metro as part of the same journey.
Serves a wider area: The station is positioned to serve more than just Jumeirah Golf Estates. It is within reach of communities and destinations including Al Furjan, Dubai Investment Park, Green Community, Dubai Production City, Expo City Dubai and Dubai South.
Growing part of Dubai: Southern Dubai continues to expand, with residential, commercial, aviation and infrastructure projects planned across the area. This growth could increase demand for convenient public transport connections.
Close to Al Maktoum International Airport: The station is also around 30 minutes by road from Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai South, placing it close to one of the emirate’s major long-term infrastructure projects. As the airport and Dubai South expand, the area is expected to attract more businesses, workers and residents, potentially increasing the importance of Dubai Al Yalayis Station as a link between Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the growing aviation and business hub in the south.
Potential future Gold Line connection: The area’s transport links could expand further with Dubai’s planned Dh34 billion Metro Gold Line. The proposed 42-kilometre route, featuring 18 stations, is designed to connect with the existing Metro network and integrate with Etihad Rail. Jumeirah Golf Estates is expected to be served by the Gold Line, which is scheduled for completion in 2032.
