Photo Credit : WAM
Abu Dhabi, UAE — In response to ongoing regional developments that have affected travel across the region, Etihad Rail has operated exceptional passenger services between Al Ghuwaifat Station in the Al Dhafra region and Al Faya Station in Abu Dhabi, transporting more than 350 passengers safely and efficiently.
The temporary service was implemented in coordination with the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC) and formed part of the UAE’s integrated national response to travel disruptions following the temporary suspension of certain flights.
The operation took place ahead of the official launch of Etihad Rail’s passenger service and demonstrated the country’s ability to mobilise its transport infrastructure quickly when needed.
Coordinated national response
Authorities said the service supported a coordinated passenger transfer process and was carried out in cooperation with relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, ensuring a smooth cross-border coordination and expedited procedures aligned with strict safety standards.
Operational teams activated approved safety protocols and emergency response plans immediately to facilitate secure and seamless transport. Both technical and human resources were deployed to ensure the operation ran efficiently.
Officials confirmed that freight operations across the national railway network continued as normal, with cargo services running on schedule without disruption.
Demonstrating infrastructure readiness
Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Director General of the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi, said the operation highlighted the strength and responsiveness of the UAE’s national emergency framework.
He noted that the move underscores the strategic importance of the national railway network and its ability to operate efficiently under different conditions.
Al Nuaimi added that running passenger services ahead of their official launch reflects strong institutional flexibility and the ability of authorities to redeploy resources quickly to address urgent societal needs while maintaining long-term operational plans.
Flexibility of the national railway network
Eng. Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, said the initiative reflects the country’s readiness to respond to evolving circumstances while supporting the stability of residents and nationals.
He emphasised that the railway network demonstrated strong operational flexibility and technical preparedness, supported by a skilled national workforce capable of delivering services efficiently without affecting other logistics operations.
To support travellers further, Etihad Rail has scheduled additional services and will continue operations as required in close coordination with relevant authorities until air traffic resumes and flight schedules return to normal.
Strengthening national resilience
Officials said the operation demonstrates how Abu Dhabi’s emergency response framework relies on proactive planning, institutional collaboration and rapid deployment of alternative solutions when required.
The initiative also highlights the UAE’s ability to maintain the continuity of vital services while managing the impact of regional developments and reinforcing confidence in the resilience of the country’s infrastructure.
