Etihad Rail has operated a passenger train service between Al Ghuwaifat station, near the Saudi border, and Al Faya station in Abu Dhabi as part of ongoing trial runs. The trial was conducted in coordination with the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre – Abu Dhabi (ADCMC).
The move comes against the backdrop of widespread regional conflict and related airspace closures across the Gulf, which has severely disrupted commercial flights and left many travellers stranded. As a result, authorities have activated a range of contingency transport measures to maintain mobility and essential services.
The operation of this route is part of a broader package of operational and proactive measures
© Abu Dhabi
The rail link between Al Ghuwaifat and Al Faya is regarded as strategically significant, strengthening geographic connectivity between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It also supports the smooth movement of people to and from key ports and border crossings, facilitating mobility for citizens and residents.
The operation of a passenger train is part of a broader package of coordinated measures designed to reinforce logistical resilience.
His Excellency Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Director General of ADCMC, said that the development and readiness of transport alternatives form a central pillar of Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive response system. He noted that developments are managed within clear governance structures and through cross-sector coordination to ensure swift adaptation and the efficient deployment of resources.
He added that the flexibility of the transport sector plays a critical role in maintaining societal stability, given its direct connection to the continuity of essential services.
The activation of the route reflects a proactive institutional approach based on advance planning and the timely deployment of alternative options when necessary. The measure is intended to enhance infrastructure resilience, improve service efficiency and ensure the continued smooth movement of people under a range of potential scenarios.
Eng Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said:
The operation of passenger services between Al Ghuwaifat and Al Faya as part of the trial demonstrates the readiness and flexibility of the UAE’s national railway network, which is designed to ensure the continuity of vital services in all circumstances. This initiative follows the directives of our wise leadership to strengthen the national transport ecosystem and enhance its strategic role in supporting society, under the ongoing guidance of His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Etihad Rail.
We are proud to support the joint response efforts led by the relevant authorities, providing safe, reliable, and well-organised transport solutions at a time when the continuity of the national transport ecosystem is crucial. Our teams continue to work closely with government partners to maintain sustainable operations and deliver dependable transport services, enhancing traffic flow and supporting the readiness of the national transport ecosystem.