Abu Dhabi to Dubai in around an hour as Etihad Rail arrives in time for the UAE’s cooler months.
There is something distinctly UAE about beginning a new era of transport with a cup of karak.
As Etihad Rail prepares to connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai with its passenger service, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan experienced the journey himself. And when an Emirati chef on board offered him a choice of drinks, his preference was simple.
Karak.
“I’m old school, I want karak,” he said.
It somehow feels like the perfect drink for the occasion.
Etihad Rail may be introducing a new way to travel around the UAE, but the experience still carries a distinctly local touch.
Dubai to Abu Dhabi — without the drive
From September 30, passengers can travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in around 57 minutes. Fares start at Dh39 for Comfort Class and Dh109 for Premium Class.
And the timing is particularly convenient.
With the UAE’s cooler season approaching, weekends are about to become much more inviting for exploring.
It is the time of year when spontaneous plans become easier — breakfast in one emirate, shopping in another, or dinner in Dubai after an afternoon in Abu Dhabi. A day out no longer necessarily means committing to a long drive in both directions.
The train journey itself could even become part of the experience: headphones on, karak in hand and views of the UAE passing by outside the window.
A new option for weekend travel
For years, travelling between Abu Dhabi and Dubai has largely meant getting behind the wheel. Etihad Rail now gives passengers another option.
Etihad Rail’s Dubai station at Al Yalayis is linked to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station by a dedicated pedestrian bridge. Passengers can also connect their rail journey with Dubai’s Metro, Tram and bus network using a single QR code.
That means the train does not have to cover the entire journey. Instead, it can become one part of a wider trip using the UAE’s public transport network.
And that could make it particularly appealing during the cooler months.
As temperatures drop, the UAE opens up to more outdoor activities, day trips and spontaneous weekend plans. Travelling across the country for coffee, dinner or a day out suddenly becomes a little easier to consider.
And this is just the beginning
The Abu Dhabi-Dubai connection is only one part of Etihad Rail’s wider passenger network, which is being introduced in phases across the UAE.
More stations are expected to open in the coming months, including Zayed City and Liwa, followed by additional stations across Al Dhafra and Sharjah.
So whether your ideal train journey involves a window seat, a weekend playlist or a cup of karak, exploring the UAE is about to become easier.
And with more Etihad Rail passenger services on the way, there is plenty more to come.
