The landmark agreement explores single-ticket bookings, dedicated airport shuttles, and integrated passenger transfers across the country
ABU DHABI — September 16, 2026 : Etihad Airways and national network operator Etihad Rail have signed a strategic agreement to integrate the UAE’s aviation and passenger rail networks, clearing the path for single-ticket domestic transit, dedicated airport transfers, and coordinated station services for travelers.
ABU DHABI — Etihad Airways and national railway operator Etihad Rail have formalized a strategic alliance aimed at integrating air travel with the country’s passenger rail network. Signed at the Arabian Travel Market, the memorandum of understanding outlines a joint operational blueprint to link international flight arrivals directly into domestic rail routes across the seven emirates.
Central to the project is an intermodal connection linking Zayed International Airport with the Mohammed Bin Zayed City Passenger Station. The operators will assess high-frequency, dedicated shuttle transfers between the airport’s passenger terminals and the national rail terminal, reducing transfer friction for inbound international tourists and domestic commuters.
Beyond physical connectivity, technical teams from both operators will examine shared digital infrastructure. The initiative targets unified air-rail ticketing, allowing passengers to book long-haul flights and domestic train journeys under a single booking reference. Baggage handling protocols and check-in services at regional rail stations are also under evaluation.
The cooperation marks a critical operational step for UAE domestic transport following the rollout of passenger rail services along the national mainline earlier this year. Linking Abu Dhabi’s primary international aviation gateway with the federal rail grid is designed to decentralize tourist traffic, dispersing visitors smoothly to regional commercial hubs and cultural sites across the Emirates.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, said the collaboration addresses expanding international passenger volumes passing through the capital.
“Etihad Airways brings millions of visitors to Abu Dhabi each year, and our partnership with Etihad Rail reflects a shared ambition to strengthen the emirate’s position as a leading global destination,” De said. “We will explore new opportunities to link air travel with destinations across the UAE, supporting tourism growth, creating greater convenience for travelers, and contributing to Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic development.”
Azza AlSuwaidi, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Rail, stated that integrating air and rail modes aligns with federal carbon reduction and infrastructure goals.
“The country continues to develop an integrated national transport system that keeps pace with its comprehensive development journey,” AlSuwaidi said. “Since the launch of passenger rail services earlier this year, Etihad Rail has continued to strengthen the role of the national railway network in connecting cities and regions across the UAE. Our partnership with Etihad Airways represents a further step towards strengthening integration between rail and aviation, supporting tourism, economic diversification, and sustainable development.”
The transport blueprint directly supports the UAE’s broader Net Zero targets and economic diversification agenda, redirecting cross-emirate transit from multi-lane highway corridors toward electrified, mass-transit rail infrastructure.
