Abu Dhabi's leisure and entertainment developer Miral has formalised a partnership with Etihad Rail to improve last-mile connectivity between the emirate's national rail network and Yas Island. The agreement, signed as a Memorandum of Understanding, will see the Yas Express shuttle service integrated with Etihad Rail's passenger operations, offering travellers a seamless transfer from the Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed City Station to Yas Island's major attractions.
The free shuttle service will connect arriving passengers directly to Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World, and SeaWorld, among other venues on the island. This move is part of a broader push to make Yas Island more accessible for both residents and international visitors, while supporting the UAE's sustainable mobility goals.
Strengthening the transport ecosystem
Lisa Goswell, Senior Vice President of Sales at Miral Destinations, highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration. "Our collaboration with Etihad Rail represents an important step towards creating a more integrated journey," she said. "Together, we are helping to advance the UAE's vision for smarter, more sustainable mobility whilst supporting the continued growth of the tourism sector."
Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial and Support at Etihad Rail Mobility, echoed that sentiment. "Through our partnership with Miral, passengers arriving at Etihad Rail Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed City Station will have a direct connection to Yas Island and its diverse range of attractions and experiences," she noted.
The partnership also lays the groundwork for future digital integration, with both companies exploring ways to link their booking and travel platforms. This could eventually allow passengers to purchase combined rail and attraction tickets, further simplifying the visitor journey.
Yas Island has been steadily expanding its appeal as a leisure destination. The island's packed Q4 2026 events calendar is expected to draw significant crowds, and improved transport links will be crucial in managing visitor flow. The new shuttle service complements existing efforts to enhance the island's accessibility, including the recent debut of a 50-metre bungee jump at Yas Bay Waterfront, which adds another thrill to the island's portfolio.
For travel professionals, this development signals a growing trend in the Gulf region towards integrated, multi-modal transport solutions. By connecting a major rail hub with a leisure destination, Miral and Etihad Rail are setting a precedent that could be replicated across other emirates and tourist zones.
The free shuttle service is expected to reduce reliance on private cars, aligning with the UAE's broader sustainability targets. It also offers a convenient option for tour operators and travel agents building itineraries that include Yas Island, as clients can now arrive by rail and transfer directly to their chosen attraction or hotel.
Etihad Rail's passenger network, which currently serves key points across the emirate, is poised for expansion. The integration with Yas Express is a practical example of how rail operators and destination management companies can collaborate to enhance the overall travel experience.
As the UAE continues to invest in its tourism infrastructure, partnerships like this one are likely to become more common. The focus on seamless connectivity, digital integration, and sustainability reflects a mature approach to destination development that other regions may look to emulate.
