Miral and Etihad Rail sign deal to improve Yas Island access via shuttle link
Residents and visitors to Abu Dhabi may soon find it simpler to reach Yas Island, following a new agreement between Miral and Etihad Rail that aims to connect the emirate’s railway network with the leisure destination’s free shuttle service.
Partnership targets seamless travel
The two organisations have signed a memorandum of understanding to link Etihad Rail’s Abu Dhabi Mohamed bin Zayed City Station with Yas Island’s Yas Express shuttle network. Under the proposed arrangement, passengers arriving at the station would be able to board the complimentary shuttle to access major attractions including Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World and SeaWorld.
The initiative is designed to improve first- and last-mile connectivity, making the journey between the national railway and the island more convenient.
Officials highlight benefits for guests and transport integration
Lisa Goswell, senior vice president of sales at Miral Destinations, said improving travel to and around Yas Island remained a priority as the destination continued to welcome guests from across the UAE and beyond. “Our collaboration with Etihad Rail represents an important step towards creating a more integrated journey, connecting rail travel with the Yas Express network to enhance accessibility and convenience for our guests,” she stated. “Together, we are helping to advance the UAE’s vision for smarter, more sustainable mobility while supporting the continued growth of the tourism sector.”
Adhraa Almansoori, executive director of commercial and support at Etihad Rail Mobility, noted that the partnership supports the UAE leadership’s vision of a more connected and integrated transport system. “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 said. “Partnerships such as this enable us to strengthen first- and last-mile connectivity and make it easier for people to combine rail with other transport options as part of one seamless journey.”
Exploring digital integration and long-term cooperation
Beyond the planned shuttle connection, Miral and Etihad Rail will also explore opportunities to improve digital connectivity between their transport systems. The aim is to create a more integrated journey from travelling on the national railway network to arriving at Yas Island.
The agreement forms part of a longer-term strategic partnership, with both organisations exploring further opportunities to improve mobility, support sustainable travel choices and strengthen access to tourism destinations across the UAE.
