Etihad Airways and Etihad Rail have formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to investigate methods for integrating air and rail travel throughout the UAE. This collaboration aims to merge the nation’s aviation and rail systems, supporting tourism growth, economic diversification, and sustainable transport.
Through this agreement, both entities will assess strategies to enhance the link between Zayed International Airport and the Mohammed Bin Zayed City Passenger Station. Proposals include dedicated shuttle services to streamline transfers between the airport and the national rail network, thereby improving multimodal connectivity.
The partnership will explore integrated air and rail booking experiences and station-based passenger services, simplifying end-to-end journeys and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a gateway for exploring destinations across the UAE. By connecting air travel with various destinations within the UAE, the initiative aims to support tourism growth and create greater convenience for travelers.
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, remarked, “Etihad Airways plays a unique role in bringing 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.”
Azza AlSuwaidi, Chief Operating Officer at Etihad Rail, highlighted the UAE’s ongoing development of an integrated national transport system, aligned with its broader progress and future goals. She noted that the collaboration with Etihad Airways marks another step toward merging rail and air travel, which will benefit tourism, economic diversification, and sustainable development across the UAE.
This joint effort will concentrate on linking Etihad Airways’ global routes with Etihad Rail’s passenger offerings, creating smoother travel experiences for those arriving in Abu Dhabi and heading to other UAE locations. The collaboration will focus on identifying opportunities to connect Etihad Airways’ international network with Etihad Rail’s passenger services, creating more integrated journeys for travelers arriving in Abu Dhabi and continuing to destinations across the UAE, supporting tourism growth, creating greater convenience for travelers, and contributing to Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic development.