I Took the UAE’s New Train Service From Dubai to Abu Dhabi—Here’s What It’s Like

Tickets

Purchasing tickets at the station is simple, with easy-to-use touchscreens manned by helpful staff members. After entering a few details, passengers receive both a digital and physical copy of their tickets—certainly a perk if you’re keen to collect a piece of inaugural memorabilia. Though prices are higher when purchased in person, starting from Dh60 ($16) for Comfort or Dh130 ($35) for Premium, compared with Dh39 ($10) and Dh129 ($35) when purchased online.

The onboard experience

Boarding begins at Platform 2, where Etihad Rail staff guide passengers to the correct carriages. Stepping onto the train felt surreal, an experience previously confined to my trips aboard. Carriages are decked out with high-end finishes—including charging ports, foldable tables, shutters and free Wi-Fi—making it clear you’re in a country where comfort is a valued commodity. The cushioned seats in Comfort offer ample room, while the Premium seats recline, giving passengers even more space to sit back.

As the train pulls away from the station, Arabic coffee and chocolates are handed out, later followed by a snack box with two shawarma sandwiches, a cake and a bottle of water, all included in the ticket price. A highlight of Comfort class is the karak (which you have to request from staff). Dreamed up by Emirati chef Maitha Warshaw, the spiced tea is intensely creamy and sweet, and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised its flavor during the train’s inaugural voyage.