Etihad Rail Is Preparing to Launch Luxury Rail Cruises Throughout UAE

🇦🇪 United Arab Emirates.

The country's railway operator, Etihad Rail, and Italian luxury hospitality company Arsenale on Tuesday signed an agreement at Abu Dhabi's Middle East Rail conference to establish the service. A launch date was not revealed but the service, which has been called a “rail cruise”. This partnership aims to introduce high-end train travel experiences in the country, and these trains will embark on a picturesque journey from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, providing rail travelers with an experience reminiscent of the renowned Orient Express.

Arsenale said the carriages will reflect Emirati heritage, while retaining “Italian production, craftsmanship, quality of on-board services, interior design and know-how”. A statement from Etihad Rail said: “Our collaboration with Arsenale is a testament to Etihad Rail’s commitment to drive economic and social growth in the UAE through the National Rail Network.

It is Arsenale’s second international luxury train project following the recent announcement of The Dream of the Desert project in Saudi Arabia. And it is envisaged the UAE service will eventually extend into the GCC. Arsenale is also planning to operate a luxury train service called " La Dolce Vita" in Italy. “We are thrilled to work together with Etihad Rail on this ground-breaking project that will promote the discovery of a magical and exciting territory outside of the renowned destinations of Abu Dhabi and Dubai,” said Paolo Barletta, chief executive of Arsenale.

It brings to mind the great railway journeys of yesteryear such as the famed Orient Express.The Orient Express was established in 1883 and ran from Paris to Istanbul. It became synonymous with sophistication and glamour.