Yango Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Etihad Rail aimed at improving passenger travel across the United Arab Emirates through integrated first- and last-mile ride-hailing services.

The agreement was announced during the second edition of the Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition & Conference in Abu Dhabi. It will see the global technology firm work with Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, to create a more connected transport system.

Under the terms of the MoU, the two companies will collaborate on passenger access at Etihad Rail stations, introducing designated pick-up and drop-off points and managing vehicle movement during peak travel times. These measures are designed to reduce congestion and ensure smoother travel for rail passengers.

A further phase of the partnership will explore digital integration, potentially allowing passengers to book rail tickets directly via the Yango app or arrange ride-hailing through Etihad Rail’s own digital platforms. This is expected to give travellers a single platform for planning and payments.

Etihad Rail’s passenger service, scheduled to begin in 2026, will connect 11 cities and regions across the country. Trains will carry up to 400 passengers and reach speeds of 200 km/h. Officials forecast annual ridership of 36.5 million by 2030. Yango Group, which operates in more than 30 countries and has recorded 1.2 billion completed trips, is expected to bring its international expertise to the partnership.

Azza Alsuwaidi, Deputy CEO of Etihad Rail Mobility, said: “This partnership with Yango Group reflects our commitment to delivering an integrated and sustainable mobility ecosystem. As we move towards the launch of passenger services in 2026, we are setting new benchmarks for seamless, convenient, safe, and reliable travel across the UAE.”

Demand for shared and integrated transport is already evident. Figures from Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority show that public transport, shared mobility, and taxi services carried approximately 395.3 million riders in the first half of 2025 alone.

Islam Abdul Karim, Regional Head of Yango Group Middle East, added: “Partnering with Etihad Rail allows us to bring advanced mobility technology to one of the region’s most ambitious transport projects. By enabling a shift towards rail and shared mobility, the collaboration supports integrated travel and enhanced point-to-point connectivity between emirates for residents and visitors alike.”

The partnership is expected to set new standards for transport integration in the UAE as the country advances towards the launch of its passenger rail network.