Etihad Rail and Citymapper Integrate for Seamless Travel Across the UAE

Published on October 11, 2025

Etihad Rail has announced a new partnership with Citymapper and Via to help improve the state of public transport and the travel experience of citizens and international travellers. The partnership will connect the UAE’s national rail network in the Citymapper app to allow tourists to plan their end-to-end journeys through various transport modes in one place.

With the integration of Etihad Rail services, Citymapper users will be able to plan trips that combine train, metro, bus, and on-demand rides, all from a single app. Whether travelling across cities or exploring local attractions, tourists can enjoy seamless transitions between different transport modes, including micromobility options, making it easier for visitors to navigate the UAE’s diverse transportation infrastructure.

Enhancing the Visitor Experience with Smart Mobility

For tourists exploring the UAE’s bustling cities and serene landscapes, navigating transport systems can sometimes be challenging. The introduction of Citymapper, integrated with Etihad Rail, simplifies this process by offering real-time schedules, fare details, and the most efficient travel routes. Whether you’re heading to a popular shopping district, historical sites, or cultural landmarks, this solution provides tourists with an easy way to plan their travel, reducing the stress often associated with unfamiliar public transport systems.

This new integration enables visitors to check the status of their train, metro, or bus in real-time, and provides suggestions on optimal routes to reduce journey times. This convenience will not only improve the overall travel experience but also enhance accessibility for tourists who are unfamiliar with the UAE’s transit options.

First- and Last-Mile Connectivity for Tourists

The initiative also focuses on first- and last-mile connectivity, which is crucial for tourists exploring the UAE. Through Via’s on-demand technology, operated by United Trans, tourists will have easier access to and from Etihad Rail stations. This means visitors can conveniently reach their hotel, tourist attractions, or business meetings using on-demand services, further promoting the use of shared mobility solutions.

Such connectivity will encourage tourists to rely more on public transport rather than taxis or private vehicles, contributing to the UAE’s sustainability efforts while offering an affordable and efficient way to travel.

Sustainable and Green Travel for Tourists

For eco-conscious travelers, the integration of Etihad Rail with Citymapper and Via aligns with the UAE’s push for sustainable mobility. By providing a seamless, low-emission travel solution, the initiative encourages tourists to adopt greener transport options that reduce their carbon footprint while exploring the country. This is particularly appealing for tourists seeking to align their travel preferences with the UAE’s ambitious environmental goals.

With rail and shared mobility services becoming the backbone of the UAE’s transport network, tourists can now travel with ease, knowing they are contributing to the reduction of traffic congestion and pollution in major cities.

Aligning with the UAE’s Vision for Smart Mobility

This collaboration is a step towards achieving the UAE’s broader vision of becoming a global leader in smart mobility. By integrating rail, metro, and on-demand services into one user-friendly platform, Etihad Rail, Citymapper, and Via are working together to position the UAE as a hub for innovative transport solutions that improve accessibility and efficiency for locals and tourists alike.

In addition, the move reflects the UAE’s commitment to enhancing the tourism experience by making it easier for international visitors to travel across the country. With seamless transitions from one transport mode to another, visitors can explore the UAE with minimal effort, which makes the country more accessible for those new to the region.

A Seamless Travel Experience for Tourists

The collaboration between Etihad Rail, Citymapper, and Via is a revolutionary development for travellers to the UAE. By improving the connections and efficiency of public transport in the country, it offers visitors a comprehensive solution for traveling its cities and attractions. Whether they are arriving at the airport, going to the beach, or visiting a museum, the connected interface delivers a smooth travel experience which helps travelers make informed choices, reduces travel time, and, most importantly, allows them to enjoy the effortless experience of traveling in the UAE. As the UAE will continue to develop its smart transport network, travelers can expect a future of easy, sustainable, and efficient travel where the only thing left to do is enjoy their travel.