Uber and Etihad Rail forge an alliance to enhance passenger transportation choices

Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE National Rail Network, has signed an initial agreement with ride-hailing app Uber to expand passenger transport options and improve mobility services in the country. The collaboration, announced during the Middle East Rail event, aims to enhance first and last-mile connectivity, explore the integration of e-hailing services, and potentially establish dedicated pick-up and drop-off areas for Uber within rail stations.

The partnership between Etihad Rail and Uber supports the goal of providing accessible and integrated transportation across the UAE, particularly in areas with limited accessibility. The upcoming passenger operations of Etihad Rail, with trains travelling at speeds up to 200kph and connecting 11 cities and areas, will significantly improve travel times and convenience for passengers.

Passenger trains are expected to offer amenities such as Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, and charging points, catering to diverse passenger segments including families, workers, and tourists. The rail network will be integrated with existing public transport modes like buses and the metro, and a unified ticketing and journey planning system is being considered.

In addition to expanding transport options, Etihad Rail and Uber will collaborate to analyze passenger activity and movement patterns between cities in the UAE. This analysis will provide insights into travel behaviours, trip lengths, popular transportation hubs, and more, allowing for improved planning and service optimization.

By combining the expertise and resources of Etihad Rail and Uber, the aim is to enhance the overall transportation experience, improve connectivity, and contribute to the well-being and convenience of residents and visitors in the UAE.