Dubai Metro to Etihad Rail in 5 Minutes: New Bridge Opens

Dubai has opened a new 375-metre pedestrian bridge connecting Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station directly to Etihad Rail’s Dubai Al Yalayis Station, allowing passengers to transfer between the two transport networks in approximately five to seven minutes. The bridge, which became accessible on Thursday, October 15, 2026, provides a convenient connection to the Dubai Metro Red Line without requiring a taxi or separate bus journey. Equipped with moving walkways, escalators and clear directional signs, the enclosed link also improves access to Etihad Rail’s passenger services connecting Dubai with Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

Dubai Metro and Etihad Rail Now Have a Direct Walking Connection

The opening of the new Dubai Metro Etihad Rail pedestrian bridge marks an important development in the UAE’s expanding public transport network. Located at Jumeirah Golf Estates, the connection provides a direct route between Dubai’s urban Metro system and the country’s national passenger railway, making it easier for commuters and visitors to continue their journeys without switching to road transport.

Previously, travellers moving between the two stations relied on a dedicated shuttle bus. With the pedestrian bridge now accessible, passengers can complete the transfer on foot through an elevated, enclosed walkway. The new infrastructure is particularly useful for people travelling from different parts of Dubai to catch intercity trains, as well as passengers arriving by Etihad Rail who want to reach destinations across the emirate.

 

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How to Reach Etihad Rail From Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station

Passengers travelling to Dubai Al Yalayis Etihad Rail Station can take the Dubai Metro Red Line to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station. From there, the pedestrian bridge can be accessed through Exit 1 or Exit 2, where signs direct travellers towards the Etihad Rail passenger terminal.

The walkway is approximately 375 metres long, according to Etihad Rail’s announcement, and takes around five to seven minutes to complete, depending on walking speed and station conditions. Moving walkways help passengers cover the distance more comfortably, while escalators and staircases provide access to the elevated connection.

Enclosed Walkway Makes Transfers Easier

One of the bridge’s main advantages is that passengers can move between the stations without crossing surrounding roads or arranging separate transport. The enclosed route offers a more convenient transfer experience, particularly during Dubai’s warmer months.

The bridge also provides a practical connection for travellers carrying luggage. Passengers arriving from Abu Dhabi or Fujairah can walk directly towards the Metro station and continue their journeys across Dubai, while those departing from the city can reach the Etihad Rail terminal using the same route in reverse.

Etihad Rail Shuttle Bus Services Will Continue Operating

Although the new pedestrian bridge removes the need for a shuttle transfer, the existing bus services between Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station and Dubai Al Yalayis Station remain available.

The shuttle services, operating under routes ER1 and ER2, provide an alternative for passengers who prefer not to walk or who are travelling with additional luggage, children or other family members. The short bus journey takes approximately two minutes under normal operating conditions.

With both walking and shuttle options available, passengers can choose the transfer method that best suits their needs. The interchange also connects with RTA’s wider bus network, allowing visitors from nearby residential communities to access Etihad Rail through existing public transport services.

Etihad Rail Connects Dubai With Abu Dhabi and Fujairah

The new bridge follows the launch of passenger operations at Dubai Al Yalayis Station on September 30, 2026, when Etihad Rail introduced services connecting Dubai with destinations across the UAE.

The national railway provides an alternative to road travel between major cities, including Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah, supporting greater connectivity between the emirates. The Dubai to Abu Dhabi rail journey takes approximately one hour, offering commuters and visitors another way to travel between the two cities.

For passengers arriving in Dubai, the Metro connection provides access to major destinations such as Dubai Marina, Business Bay and Downtown Dubai, reducing the need for additional car journeys after leaving the train.

Integrated Etihad Rail and Dubai Metro Ticketing

Alongside the physical connection, Etihad Rail and Dubai’s transport authorities have introduced integrated ticketing arrangements that allow passengers to combine eligible rail and Metro journeys in a single transaction.

The system uses a QR code linked to the traveller’s booking, helping simplify journeys across the two networks. Passengers can review journey information and available transport connections through the official Etihad Rail website or its mobile application.

Travellers should check the separate boarding requirements and schedules for Etihad Rail and Dubai Metro before making their journey, particularly when connecting between services.

New Bridge Strengthens Dubai’s Public Transport Network

The pedestrian connection represents another step towards integrating Dubai’s transport infrastructure with the UAE’s national railway system. By linking Etihad Rail, Dubai Metro and RTA bus services at Jumeirah Golf Estates, the interchange makes travelling between cities and local destinations more convenient.

The connection is also expected to benefit visitors who prefer to explore Dubai using public transport, offering a direct route from the national railway to the city’s established Metro network.

With the new Etihad Rail and Dubai Metro bridge now open, passengers can travel between Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station and Dubai Al Yalayis Station in minutes, making intercity railway journeys more accessible and reducing reliance on separate road transfers.