The new Liwa station is set to open on November 30, 2026. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, moved the launch forward by a month to match the region's bustling festival calendar. The timing means families can skip long drives and hop on a comfortable train for celebrations in Liwa and Zayed City.
Opening aligns with festival season
Etihad Rail’s network began linking Abu Dhabi and Fujairah in June, then reached Dubai and Al Dhaid by September. The next phase will bring the remaining Al Dhafra stations online in December, while Sharjah is slated to finish the eleven‑station stretch in March 2027. By accelerating the Liwa and Zayed City stations to November 30, the rail line will be ready for the annual Mazayna and International Festival events, offering a smoother alternative to congested roads.
Local residents see the change as more than a convenience. Dr Salma Al Mansouri, a Liwa resident, explained the broader impact: Having a train station changes the economic picture of our region entirely. I expect land and property values around the station to rise, people to start opening small businesses, restaurants, shops and even rental apartments— Dr Salma Al Mansouri, Liwa. She added that the train’s comfort and cost‑effectiveness could persuade many to choose rail over car journeys for longer trips.
Local hopes for economic and social benefits
Beyond economics, the stations signal a shift in how the community views mobility. Noura Saeed from Liwa noted that the project acknowledges Zayed City and Liwa as essential parts of the country’s transport map, and that future generations will view trains as normal as cars. This perspective could open new opportunities for study and work across cities while keeping families rooted at home.
Safety concerns also drive excitement. Mohammed Matar, a Zayed City resident, highlighted the risks of road travel during festival periods: During festival periods, roads get very congested and people drive while being tired or speeding to make it to an event, which raises the risk of accidents. The train removes that pressure entirely.— Mohammed Matar, Zayed City. With the railway in place, families can avoid night‑time drives and enjoy a more relaxed journey to celebrations.
Overall, the early opening of Liwa station promises a blend of convenience, safety, and economic uplift for Al Dhafra. As the rail line expands, residents anticipate a new rhythm of travel that connects them more closely to the rest of the Emirates while keeping the festive spirit alive.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Liwa station scheduled to open?
The Liwa station is set to debut on November 30, 2026, as announced by Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
How will the new Liwa station help families during festival season?
It provides a quicker, safer rail option that lets families avoid long, congested drives to festival celebrations in Liwa and Zayed City.
What economic effects are expected from the station’s opening?
Local residents anticipate rising land and property values, new small businesses, restaurants, shops, and rental apartments around the station.
Which festivals does the early opening align with?
The November 30 launch is timed for the annual Mazayna and International Festival events in Al Dhafra.
What safety advantages does the train offer over road travel during festivals?
The train reduces night‑time driving, eases road congestion, and lowers the risk of accidents caused by tired or speeding drivers.
