In a celebration of the cultural and culinary heritage of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Rail has introduced a unique dining experience on board its new passenger trains between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah. The initiative, crafted by Capital Hospitality—part of the ADNEC Group—aims to provide passengers with an exceptional taste journey inspired by the rich flavours and traditions of the UAE.
A Culinary Journey Through the Emirates
The menu has been developed by acclaimed Emirati chef Meytha Warsho, who has leveraged her expertise to craft a selection entitled “A Journey Across the Emirates.” This menu allows travellers to savour authentic local flavours representative of the Emirates’ culinary landscape while they travel to their destinations. Key ingredients such as dates, saffron, cardamom, local honey, and Arabic coffee are integral to the dishes, showcasing the regional essence of Emirati cuisine.
Modern Takes on Traditional Cuisine
Among the standout dishes is an innovative interpretation of the traditional Majboos, featuring slow-cooked meat served with saffron-infused rice seasoned with classic Emirati spices. This dish exemplifies the broader philosophy of the menu—celebrating tradition through a contemporary lens. During the train’s inaugural weeks, Chef Meytha’s interaction with passengers has garnered enthusiastic feedback, highlighting the significance of the culinary experience and the story behind each dish.
Enhancing the Travel Experience
Azra Al Mansouri, Executive Director of the Commercial Sector at Etihad Rail Passenger Services, expressed, “The passenger train is not merely a means of transportation from one point to another; it offers travellers a unique perspective of the UAE, from the diverse landscapes observed through the train windows to the cultural and traditional elements that reflect the identity of our nation. Through this partnership, we aim to integrate aspects of Emirati culture and hospitality into the details of our journeys, allowing passengers to explore authentic national flavours while travelling across the country.”
Commitment to Emirati Hospitality
Hamad Al Qubaisi, Director of the Commercial Department at Capital Hospitality, remarked on the collaboration: “Our partnership with Etihad Rail underscores the important role hospitality plays in shaping the future of travel. Each detail enhances passengers’ comfort and service quality, enriching their experience. By offering genuine Emirati flavours and embodying the values of UAE hospitality on board our trains, we not only ensure an efficient and modern travel experience but also reflect the nation’s culture and identity with authenticity.”
Special Offerings for Travellers
To mark the launch of the new passenger services, Etihad Rail welcomes customers with a special Ghaf tree-inspired juice—a nod to the UAE’s national tree—alongside a variety of locally flavoured chocolates, such as “Seven Spices,” “Dates and Caramel,” and “Coffee and Cardamom,” available for a limited time. The traditional Arabic coffee, fresh juices, specialty coffee, and fine teas will also be offered, enhancing the onboard experience.
Celebrating Emirati Talent
Chef Meytha Warsho, who crafted the exclusive menu for Etihad Rail, is a distinguished figure in the culinary world representing the UAE on international stages. Her role as head chef at the UAE Pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka highlights her commitment to celebrating Emirati culinary heritage while employing contemporary techniques and creating experiences that resonate with a modern audience.
This collaboration reflects Etihad Rail’s dedication to providing passengers with a comfortable journey that unmistakably captures the unique identity of the UAE.