UAE Prepares Public for First Passenger Rail Network

Etihad Rail has launched a nationwide rail safety campaign ahead of the introduction of passenger train services across the United Arab Emirates later this year.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about safe behaviour around railway infrastructure as the country prepares to welcome passenger rail services for the first time.

According to Etihad Rail, the initiative will be rolled out across all Emirates through television, digital platforms and community engagement programmes targeting road users, residents and future passengers.

The company said the campaign is designed to promote long-term behavioural awareness rather than relying solely on warning messages. It focuses on encouraging communities to view rail safety as a shared responsibility between passengers, residents and the wider transport system.

Adhraa Almansoori, Director of Public Policy and Sustainability at Etihad Rail, said safety remains the foundation of the company’s operations as preparations continue for passenger service launches.

She said the campaign is intended to help communities better understand how to safely interact with railway infrastructure while supporting a broader culture of care and responsibility.

Passenger rail services are expected to begin in 2026 through a phased rollout designed to ensure high standards of safety, reliability and passenger comfort from the start.

Etihad Rail said its network has been developed in line with international rail safety standards and includes advanced signalling systems, operational protocols and continuous monitoring technologies.

As part of the awareness campaign, the company has also released a series of visuals and advertisements showing real-life passenger scenarios and interactions within railway environments to help familiarise the public with safe rail behaviour.

The initiative will also include outreach programmes involving schools, local communities and key stakeholders as the UAE expands its national rail network.

Established in 2009, Etihad Rail oversees the UAE’s national railway network spanning approximately 900 kilometres, connecting major cities, industrial zones and ports from Ghuwaifat to Fujairah.

The future passenger rail service is expected to connect 11 cities and regions across the UAE.