Etihad Rail will inaugurate its Al Yalayis Station in Dubai on September 30, 2026, establishing Dubai’s first dedicated passenger station within the national railway network. This launch marks the extension of passenger train services to connect the emirate with other parts of the UAE, including a new route to Al Dhaid in Sharjah starting on the same date.
Al Yalayis Station Location and Connectivity
The Al Yalayis Station is situated in Jumeirah Golf Estates near Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). This location provides access to several major communities in southern Dubai, such as Al Furjan, Dubai Investment Park, Green Community, Dubai Production City, Expo City
Dubai, and Dubai South. The station is approximately a 30-minute drive from Al Maktoum International Airport.
A pedestrian bridge is under construction to link Al Yalayis Station with the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on Dubai Metro’s Red Line, facilitating transfers between Etihad Rail and the city’s urban rail network.
Journey Times and Ticketing Details
Passenger service from Al Yalayis to Mohammed Bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi will take about 57 minutes, providing a rail alternative to the road journey between the two emirates. Ticket prices start at Dh55 for Comfort Class and Dh120 for Premium Class, with discounts including 50% off for children
aged 2 to 17, 20% off for seniors 60 and above, and free travel for infants below two years when accompanied by an adult.
Passengers can purchase tickets through the Etihad Rail mobile application or the official website, which offer options to check schedules, select seats, and manage bookings. Travelers should arrive at stations at least 20 minutes ahead of departure, as boarding gates close two minutes before scheduled train times.
Future Stations and Network Rollout Across UAE
Dubai is set to have four Etihad Rail passenger stations: the initial Al Yalayis Station; a planned station in the Meydan area; and two stations designated for the Dubai-Abu
Dhabi High-Speed Rail project located at Al Maktoum International Airport and Al Jaddaf. The Al Jaddaf station will connect with Dubai Metro’s Green Line and planned Blue Line.
Etihad Rail’s phased rollout includes 10 passenger stations expected to be operational nationwide by March 31, 2027. In addition to Al Yalayis and Al Dhaid opening on September 30, 2026, other stations will open November 30, 2026 (Madinat Zayed, Liwa), December 30, 2026 (Al Sila, Al Dhannah, Al Mirfa), and March 30, 2027 (Sharjah University City).
Transport Integration and Infrastructure Developments in Southern Dubai
Al Yalayis Station’s location supports the growing residential, commercial, and aviation development in southern Dubai, including
Dubai South and Al Maktoum International Airport. The station’s proximity to the Metro Red Line and the planned pedestrian connection integrates national and urban rail transport.
The approved Dh34 billion Dubai Metro Gold Line project, scheduled for completion in 2032, will cover 42 kilometers with 18 stations and is expected to integrate with Etihad Rail services at Jumeirah Golf Estates and surrounding areas.
Passenger Information and Operational Policies
Passengers are advised to have tickets ready before boarding and to proceed fully into carriages to facilitate smooth entry. Large luggage should be stored in designated areas, keeping aisles and emergency exits clear. Noise must be kept
to a minimum, with phone calls kept brief and on low volume.
If a train is delayed by 30 minutes or more due to operator causes, travelers may opt to rebook or request a refund. In cases of no-shows where passengers miss trains without operator fault, no refunds or compensation apply. Linking train delays caused by Etihad Rail allow rebooking on the next service without additional charge but do not cover third-party transport connections such as Dubai Metro or taxis.
