New Launch - India Real Estate Report 2026.

Etihad Rail to Boost Fujairah Property Market, Say Experts

Etihad Rail passenger train travelling toward Fujairah on the UAE's east coast

14th August 2026

5 Min Read

Etihad Rail passenger train travelling toward Fujairah on the UAE's east coast

Etihad Rail's passenger network is expected to reshape Fujairah's property market. Developers and real estate experts forecast stronger demand.

They also expect rising property values and fresh investment. This comes as the emirate becomes more accessible from the rest of the UAE.

Industry executives say the improved connectivity could transform Fujairah. It could shift from a weekend destination to a viable place to live, work and invest.

It could also open new opportunities for residential, retail and mixed-use developments around the new rail stations.

Property values expected to rise near new stations

Nasar Tajalli, general manager of Fujairah Real Estate Agency, said demand is likely to emerge first around the Fujairah and Sakamkam station areas.

He expects healthy interest in residential plots and villas near these stations first. Appealing retail and mixed-use developments are likely to follow, as those neighbourhoods grow.

Over the longer term, Tajalli expects well-located properties near the stations to appreciate. He forecasts gains of 20 to 30 per cent between 2029 and 2031.

This would come alongside shorter commutes, better amenities and more employment opportunities. Tajalli has observed Fujairah's real estate market for more than two decades.

He said the emirate has long been undervalued despite its lifestyle appeal.

Fujairah is the UAE's only emirate located entirely on the eastern coast. It borders Oman and faces the Gulf of Oman.

Known for its mountains, beaches and diving spots, it has become popular among residents seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Also Read: DAMAC Hosts Two-Day Mortgage Event with UAE Banks

Search activity already picking up

Searches for property sales in Fujairah are already rising. They climbed to the strongest single month on record in July, reaching 8,337 searches, according to Property Finder.

  • Rent leads: up 11.1 per cent to 1,306
  • Sale leads: up 2.2 per cent to 92, between June and July 2026

One of Etihad Rail's inaugural stations opened in Al Hilal City. Cherif Sleiman, chief revenue officer at Property Finder, said this overlap is worth watching closely.

He noted that areas where residential demand already outruns supply are starting to align with new inter-emirate infrastructure.

Also Read: ORA Launches Y Views Villa Collection Within Bayn UAE

Impact goes beyond housing demand

Fibha Ahmed, vice-president of Sales at Bayut and dubizzle Property, said the impact of Etihad Rail is expected to extend well beyond residential demand.

She called the launch of passenger services a potential major turning point for Fujairah's real estate market, as improved connectivity makes previously overlooked markets more attractive to residents and investors.

Ahmed said Fujairah already offers relatively affordable homes, larger properties and a distinct lifestyle. Rail connectivity strengthens that appeal for buyers who want better value while staying connected to major employment centres.

She added that improved accessibility can also support tourism, attract business activity, and encourage investment in infrastructure and mixed-use developments.

However, Ahmed said expanding freehold ownership opportunities will be equally important. She said connectivity may bring people into the market, but investors also need clear ownership structures and confidence to hold an asset over the long term.

Enjoyed this update? Visit PropTech Pulse for more real estate news, investment insights and property market trends.