Dubai is set to become a key hub in the UAE’s passenger railway network with the inauguration of the Al Yalayis Station on September 30, 2026. This landmark station will be the first dedicated passenger station for the Union Railway in the emirate, facilitating a direct link to Abu Dhabi and extending train services to Sharjah.
The opening of Al Yalayis Station marks a significant development in the gradual expansion of the national passenger railway network in the UAE, following the launch of the Abu Dhabi–Fujairah service on June 30, 2023.
Travelling from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in 57 Minutes
The new service will connect Al Yalayis Station in Dubai to Mohammed bin Zayed City in Abu Dhabi, allowing for a journey time of approximately 57 minutes. This provides an innovative transport option between the two emirates, complementing existing car and other road transport services.
On the day of the station’s opening, passenger services will also be extended to Al Dhaid in Sharjah, which is part of a broader initiative to progressively open Union Railway stations throughout the nation.
According to current plans, the number of operational stations on the national passenger railway network is expected to reach 10 stations by the end of March 2027.
Where is Al Yalayis Station Located?
Al Yalayis Station is situated in the Jumeirah Golf Estates area, conveniently located near Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311). This prime location offers easy access to various residential and commercial communities in South Dubai.
Nearby areas include Jumeirah Golf Estates, Al Furjan, Dubai Investment Park, Green Community, Dubai Production City, Expo City Dubai, and Dubai South.
The station is approximately a 30-minute drive from Al Maktoum International Airport, depending on traffic conditions, enhancing its significance as development continues in southern Dubai.
Direct Link with Dubai Metro
One of the standout features of Al Yalayis Station is its planned connection to the Dubai Metro. It will be conveniently located near the Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on the red line.
A dedicated pedestrian bridge is under construction to link the Union Railway Station with the metro station, allowing passengers to complete their journeys across Dubai’s public transport network without relying on a car.
This integration will make accessing the Union Railway more convenient for commuters from various areas in the emirate and enhance the connectivity between local transport services and the national railway network.
Why is Al Yalayis Station Important for Dubai?
The significance of Al Yalayis Station aligns with the rapid growth being experienced in South Dubai, particularly around Dubai South, Expo City, and areas surrounding Al Maktoum International Airport.
Additionally, the station’s proximity to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, one of the emirate’s main thoroughfares, broadens the scope of regions that can benefit from its services.
In the long term, the area is expected to become part of a more integrated railway system, especially with Dubai’s plans to develop metro lines and new train projects.
Among these initiatives is the Golden Line of Dubai Metro, estimated to cost Dh34 billion, projected to span 42 kilometres with 18 stations, targeted for completion in 2032.
Four Stations Linked to Union Railway Projects in Dubai
The plans extend beyond Al Yalayis Station, as Dubai is expected to feature four stations linked to Union Railway projects in the future.
According to announced plans, two stations will be part of the national Union Railway network, while the other two will serve high-speed rail projects between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The 2032 Dubai railway network map indicates a future station in the Meydan area within the national framework, while high-speed train stations are planned for Al Maktoum International Airport and Al Jaddaf.
The Al Jaddaf station is anticipated to integrate with both the Green and Blue lines of Dubai Metro in the future.
With the opening of Al Yalayis Station on September 30, Dubai is entering a new era of railway transport. This development not only enhances connectivity between the emirates but also offers residents and visitors an additional travel option between the country’s major cities.