The United Arab Emirates is on the cusp of a major transport transformation with Etihad Rail confirming the launch of its national passenger train service in 2026. The long-anticipated network will connect cities from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah on the east coast, significantly enhancing inter-emirate connectivity and redefining how residents travel across the country.

Etihad Rail has officially confirmed four key passenger stations: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah, which will form the backbone of the initial rollout. In total, the network will feature 11 strategically located passenger stations, serving urban centres, coastal towns, desert communities, and educational hubs across the UAE.

Designed as a high-speed, congestion-free alternative to road travel, the passenger trains will operate at speeds of up to 200 km/h. Travel times are expected to reduce dramatically, with journeys such as Abu Dhabi to Dubai taking just 57 minutes, and potentially as little as 30 minutes on high-speed services. Abu Dhabi to Fujairah will take approximately 105 minutes, offering a seamless east–west connection for the first time.

Beyond speed, Etihad Rail’s passenger service places strong emphasis on comfort and experience. The trains, manufactured by Spain’s CAF, can accommodate up to 400 passengers per journey and feature a cabin environment inspired by airline travel. Guests will be able to choose from First Class, Business Class, and spacious Economy seating, all equipped with charging ports, high-speed Wi-Fi, and advanced climate-control systems designed for the region’s extreme temperatures. Onboard food and beverage services will further enhance the travel experience.

Seamless first- and last-mile connectivity is a core pillar of the project. Major stations such as Jumeirah Golf Estates in Dubai will connect directly to the Dubai Metro, while other stations will integrate bus terminals, taxi zones, and digital ticketing systems. A fully digital-first approach will allow passengers to plan, book, and access their journeys via a mobile app, ensuring smooth and efficient travel from door to door.

The project is a key component of the UAE’s “Projects of the 50” initiative and is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, with rail transport projected to cut emissions by 70–80 per cent compared to road travel. In addition to easing congestion on major highways such as the E11 and E311, the network is expected to boost economic integration, workforce mobility, and overall quality of life.

Commenting on the launch, Shadi Malak, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Rail, said the project goes beyond transportation. “Our goal is to create a network that is safe, efficient, and sustainable. This is not just about moving people, it’s about enhancing the quality of life for every citizen and resident in the UAE.”

As of early 2026, 10 of the 13 planned passenger trains have already arrived in the UAE and are undergoing final safety certification. With infrastructure in place and testing underway, Etihad Rail’s passenger service marks the beginning of a new chapter in the nation’s transport journey, one that promises faster, greener, and more connected travel across the Emirates.

Turkish Airlines has cancelled at least five flights to Tehran as protests across Iran entered their twelfth consecutive day, triggering travel disruptions and heightened security concerns. The cancellations were confirmed on Friday through the Istanbul Airport application, which also showed that five additional flights operated by Iranian airlines were cancelled, while seven flights remain scheduled.

The unrest comes amid widespread demonstrations against the rising cost of living in Iran. Protests intensified overnight after exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi called for renewed demonstrations, prompting crowds to march and chant through the streets into Friday morning.

Alongside the protests, a massive internet blackout has been detected across large parts of Iran, further escalating tensions. Iranian authorities had earlier warned of cutting off internet services and international telephone calls as demonstrations continued to spread.

In response to the deteriorating situation, India’s Ministry of External Affairs has issued an advisory urging citizens to avoid travelling to Iran until conditions stabilise. Airlines are closely monitoring the developments, with further disruptions possible depending on the security situation.

The ongoing unrest has significantly impacted air connectivity to Tehran, affecting both international and domestic travellers. Aviation authorities and carriers are expected to reassess flight operations in the coming days as the situation evolves.

SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting has successfully brought together Green Oasis Hospitality Pvt Ltd and Sarovar Hotels to introduce Golden Tulip in Virat Nagar, Jaipur. This strategic brand partnership marks an important addition to Rajasthan’s growing hospitality landscape, with the upcoming property positioned as a premium four-star hotel.

Planned as a 110-room development, Golden Tulip Virat Nagar is designed to serve a balanced mix of business and leisure travellers, while also emerging as a preferred destination for large-format social gatherings. Located on the outskirts of Jaipur, Virat Nagar has been identified as a high-potential micro-market, particularly for destination weddings, corporate offsites, and upscale retreats.

SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting played a key role in aligning the hospitality asset with the right brand to unlock long-term value. By bringing Golden Tulip, part of the Sarovar Hotels portfolio, to the project, Green Oasis Hospitality gains access to a strong global distribution network and professional hotel management expertise, setting the stage for sustained revenue growth from the outset.

Highlighting the vision behind the partnership, Sandeep Roy, Founder & CEO, SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting, said, "Jaipur’s periphery is evolving into a powerhouse for high-end social events and leisure retreats. Facilitating this partnership between Green Oasis and Sarovar Hotels ensures that Virat Nagar gains a premier asset designed to capture the growing demand for large-format weddings and upscale staycations."

Golden Tulip Virat Nagar, Jaipur is being thoughtfully planned with a strong focus on events and premium guest experiences. The hotel will feature 110 spacious luxury rooms, each with a minimum size of 400 square feet, including a select number of exclusive plunge pool rooms.

The property’s food and beverage offerings will include a signature all-day dining restaurant and a contemporary lounge bar, catering to both resident guests and event attendees. For social and corporate functions, the hotel will house a grand banquet hall spanning 6,500 square feet, supported by multiple conference halls suited for meetings and MICE requirements.

One of the key highlights of the development is its expansive outdoor event infrastructure. The hotel will offer multiple landscaped lawns, with the largest covering 13,000 square feet, specifically designed to host large-scale destination weddings and celebratory events. Additional amenities will include a swimming pool, a fully equipped gym and spa, and a dedicated kids play area, ensuring a complete leisure experience for families and groups.

With this signing, Virat Nagar is set to gain a landmark hospitality asset that aligns with Jaipur’s evolving demand for premium stays and large-format event venues, further strengthening the region’s appeal as a luxury wedding and leisure destination.