Etihad Rail and Keolis Announce Joint Venture to Launch Passenger Rail Services in the UAE by 2026

Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s National Railway Network, has announced a landmark joint venture with Keolis, a global leader in passenger transport, to introduce passenger rail services across the Emirates.

The announcement was made during Global Rail 2025 in Abu Dhabi, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. The event was attended by His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs and Chairman of Etihad Rail.

Passenger services are scheduled to launch in 2026, a move that will mark a historic milestone for the nation’s railway network and reshape the way people travel across the UAE.

Speaking on the occasion, Azza Alsuwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Mobility, said the agreement represents “a bold step forward” for the country’s transport sector. “By partnering with Keolis, an organisation that matches our vision and goals, we are enhancing our operational readiness with the highest levels of efficiency,” she noted. “This partnership is about more than building railways; it is about shaping the future of transport in our nation and setting the stage for the launch of our passenger services in 2026.”

Keolis, which operates in 13 countries, brings decades of expertise in managing complex passenger rail systems. Its Chairwoman and Group CEO, Marie-Ange Debon, described the partnership as a “long-term commitment” to supporting the UAE’s sustainable mobility goals. “We are proud to work alongside Etihad Rail to deliver safe, modern, and environmentally friendly services for passengers in the Emirates,” she said.

The joint venture will prioritize passenger comfort through modern amenities, seamless operations, and innovative solutions, while also aligning with the UAE’s sustainability agenda. By combining Etihad Rail’s world-class infrastructure with Keolis’ international experience, the partnership aims to set new standards for efficiency and passenger experience in the region.

The collaboration underscores the UAE’s commitment to building a connected, sustainable, and people-focused transport network, positioning rail travel as a key driver of mobility transformation in the years ahead.