Etihad Rail integrates with Citymapper for seamless multi-modal travel planning across UAE
By Dubai Currents Staff2 min read
Passengers on Etihad Rail can now plan their entire journeys through the Citymapper app, following a partnership between the national train operator, Citymapper’s parent company Via, and transport operator United Trans.
The integration allows users to see how to reach the station from their starting point, which train to board, and how to continue to their final destination once they disembark. Citymapper combines Etihad Rail services with metro, bus, on-demand transport and other options, giving travellers the ability to compare different routes and modes in one view.
App complements existing booking channels
As the passenger rail network expands, the app aims to simplify journey planning for customers. The partnership works alongside Etihad Rail’s existing digital platforms, where passengers will still book and manage their train travel through the railway’s website and app. Citymapper is intended for planning connections across the wider transport network in the UAE.
Network launch and station details
The collaboration follows the official launch of the national passenger service on 30 September. Trains now operate between Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Al Dhaid and Fujairah. Services began with an introductory phase on 30 June between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. Dubai services started on 30 September from Al Yalayis Station in Jumeirah Golf Estates. Al Dhaid Station in Sharjah serves communities in the emirate’s central region and provides direct trains to Fujairah and Abu Dhabi.
An Etihad Rail spokesperson said the Liwa station is scheduled to open in November, ahead of the Liwa festival.
Official comments
Adhraa Al Mansoori of Etihad Rail Mobility said the aim is to provide customers with more choice and confidence. “Planning a train trip should be simple and fit naturally into the way people already move around the UAE,” she said. “By working with partners such as Citymapper, we are supporting that experience beyond the rail journey itself, helping customers make more informed decisions before they travel and making it easier for them to choose public transport as part of their journeys.”
Chris Snyder of Via said passengers now expect different transport networks to function as a single experience. “By integrating Etihad Rail services within Citymapper and combining them with other transport modes, we are helping create a more connected and intuitive way for people to move around the UAE,” he said.
Lionel Joseph, Head of Operations at United Trans, said: “Integrated mobility depends on strong collaboration between transport providers, operators and technology partners. We are proud to support an initiative that helps make public transport more connected, accessible and convenient for customers across the UAE.”
