Etihad Rail passenger service has recorded more than 5,000 ticket sales ahead of its historic Abu Dhabi to Fujairah launch on June 30.

ABU DHABI: The Etihad Rail passenger service has attracted strong public interest ahead of its official launch, with more than 5,000 tickets sold before the first train departs on June 30. The milestone marks the beginning of passenger rail travel between emirates, opening a new chapter in the UAE’s transport network.

Etihad Rail confirmed that its passenger services application has also become the most downloaded free app in the UAE, reflecting widespread excitement surrounding the long-awaited launch. The inaugural route will connect Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, offering residents and visitors a new travel option across the country.

Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial at Etihad Rail, said the ticket sales represent cumulative first-day bookings and demonstrate strong demand for rail travel across the UAE. She added that the Abu Dhabi to Fujairah route was selected as the first passenger service because it traverses diverse terrain, including desert landscapes and mountainous regions, providing the ideal opportunity to test operational performance and first and last-mile connectivity before expanding the network.

Chief Operating Officer Azza AlSuwaidi said the launch allows residents to become part of a new era in national transportation after watching the railway take shape for several years. She noted that travellers can now simply download the app, purchase a ticket and experience the country’s modern railway for themselves.

Introductory fares for the Abu Dhabi to Fujairah route start from AED55 and will be available for a limited period before a broader pricing structure is introduced. Etihad Rail said future passenger routes will serve different travel needs, with the Fujairah service expected to attract leisure travellers, while the planned Dubai route will primarily cater to business commuters.

The Etihad Rail passenger service represents a significant milestone in the UAE’s long-term transport strategy, improving connectivity between emirates while supporting tourism, economic growth and sustainable mobility. Officials said the strong early response demonstrates growing public confidence in rail travel, with the Etihad Rail passenger service expected to play a key role in the country’s future transportation network.