Etihad Rail Now Allows Pets on Board Under New Guidelines

Passengers can now travel with domestic pets, including dogs and falcons, on Etihad Rail's passenger trains. Under the new guidelines, pets must remain inside an approved carrier measuring no more than 55 × 40 × 23 cm, with one carrier allowed per passenger. The pet carrier also counts as the passenger's cabin baggage allowance. The policy comes into effect with the launch of Etihad Rail's Abu Dhabi to Fujairah passenger service.

The announcement makes Etihad Rail one of the few public transport options in the UAE where passengers can travel with their pets on inter-emirate journeys. While the rules are straightforward, travellers should understand the requirements before booking their trip.

Key Pet Travel Rules

Passengers travelling with pets on Etihad Rail must follow these guidelines:

• Domestic pets, including dogs and falcons, are allowed on passenger trains.
• Pets must remain inside an approved pet carrier throughout the journey.
• The pet carrier must not exceed 55 × 40 × 23 cm.
• Each passenger may bring only one pet carrier.
• Pets cannot leave the carrier or occupy passenger seats during the trip.
• The pet carrier counts as the passenger's cabin baggage allowance, meaning it replaces a regular carry-on bag.
• Trained and certified assistance dogs are permitted but must be booked in advance through the Etihad Rail Contact Centre.

While Etihad Rail has confirmed the core travel rules, it has not yet released details on whether additional pet fees will apply or whether regular pets will require advance booking. There is also no official information yet on pet weight limits, vaccination requirements, breed restrictions or other documentation that may be needed.

As Etihad Rail begins passenger operations between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah, the new pet policy gives residents another convenient way to travel across the UAE with their companion animals. Passengers planning to travel with a pet should ensure their carrier meets the required dimensions and watch for further updates as the passenger network continues to expand.