Etihad Rail exceptional passenger train services in Abu Dhabi to rescue UAE citizens from Saudi Arabia

2 min readMar 5, 2026 03:54 PM Iran-Israel war news: Etihad Rail has commenced passenger train services in Abu Dhabi to bring back UAE citizens from Saudi Arabia. The passenger train services are officially scheduled to launch later this year. However, the service has been introduced early as part of national readiness efforts amid the ongoing situation in the Middle East.

Etihad Rail exceptional passenger services
Etihad Rail is operating the special train services from Ghuweifat Station in Al Dhafrah Region to Al Faya Station in Abu Dhabi City. So far, three passenger train services have been operated on an exceptional basis to facilitate the return of UAE citizens.
“This initiative reflects the resilience and operational agility of the UAE’s national railway network and reinforces its strategic role in ensuring continuity of movement and serving the community under all circumstances providing safe and reliable alternative transport solutions,” Etihad Rail said in a statement.
It further stated that the move reflects long-term strategic planning and sustained investment in integrated national infrastructure.
Etihad Rail latest update
The passenger train services between Al Ghuwaifat station on the Saudi border and Al Faya station in Abu Dhabi, is strategically significant, as it enhances the geographical connection between the two countries and supports the smooth flow of movement to and from key ports. It also facilitates mobility for both nationals and residents and enables the relevant authorities to activate alternative routes in line with approved response plans.
“The operation of this route is part of a broader package of operational and proactive measures implemented in coordination between the centre and the relevant authorities. These measures are designed to ensure the integration of roles and to strengthen logical security, in line with business continuity plans and multi-scenario risk management frameworks,” it said.

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Anish Mondal is a journal with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors.

Professional Journey
Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com.

Education & Expertise
Anish’s reporting is backed a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities:

Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University
Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication
Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta

Areas of Coverage
Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. … Read More

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