Full List of Banned and Restricted Items on Etihad Rail Passenger Trains
Etihad Rail has introduced a range of rules governing what passengers can and cannot carry on its passenger trains. As more UAE residents begin using the railway, knowing the Etihad Rail banned and restricted items can help passengers prepare for a smooth journey.
The inaugural Fujairah-Abu Dhabi passenger route was launched on June 30, offering travellers a new way to travel across the UAE. Passengers should be aware of the railway’s baggage, pet and prohibited-item rules before arriving at the station.
Etihad Rail prohibited items
| No. | Prohibited Item | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Explosives | Fireworks, ammunition and other explosive materials |
| 2 | Flammable & Hazardous Substances | Gasoline, paint thinners, compressed gases, pressurised gas cylinders and aerosol canisters |
| 3 | Weapons | Firearms, knives and other weapons, except when carried by authorised personnel |
| 4 | Illegal Drugs | Illegal drugs and controlled substances |
| 5 | Chemical & Biological Hazards | Materials posing chemical or biological risks |
| 6 | Oversized or Disruptive Items | Large luggage, boxes, musical instruments and bulky sports equipment that cannot fit in storage areas or may obstruct aisles/exits |
| 7 | Unsecured Items | Items that cannot be safely stored or secured, including plants |
| 8 | Trade Items | Items in quantities or packaging suggesting they require specialised professional transportation |
| 9 | Customs-Banned Items | Items prohibited by UAE customs authorities |
| 10 | Alcoholic Beverages | All alcoholic beverages, including sealed or legally purchased products |
| 11 | Smoking Devices | Electronic shisha, vaping devices, e-cigarettes and other electronic smoking apparatus |
| 12 | Offensive or Disruptive Items | Items producing strong odours or causing danger, discomfort, disruption or unreasonable distress |
| 13 | Bicycles & Scooters | Bicycles, scooters, e-scooters and other personal means of transport, even if foldable or disassembled |
Restricted items on Etihad Rail
| No. | Restricted Item | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luggage | Up to 2 pieces of luggage are allowed free of charge. Additional baggage must be requested through the app, website, Contact Centre or at a station. |
| 2 | Personal Items | Handbags and laptop bags must fit under the passenger’s seat. |
| 3 | Carry-on Bag | Maximum dimensions: 55cm (H) × 40cm (W) × 23cm (D). Must be stored in the overhead luggage racks. |
| 4 | Wheelchairs | Allowed if a wheelchair space has been reserved during booking. Electric wheelchairs must have integrated, manufacturer-installed batteries. |
| 5 | Strollers/Baby Carriages | One stroller per child is allowed free of charge if it is easily foldable or can be disassembled. Protective wrapping is recommended. |
| 6 | Medical Equipment | Oxygen tanks and other mobility aids may be permitted if wheelchair seating has been booked and the equipment fits within the allocated wheelchair seating area. |
Can you take pets on Etihad Rail?
Yes. Domestic pets, including dogs and falcons, are permitted on Etihad Rail passenger services, subject to the applicable conditions.
Pets must be transported in an approved carrier measuring no more than 55cm × 40cm × 23cm. The pet carrier replaces the standard carry-on luggage allowance, meaning passengers cannot travel with both a pet carrier and a separate carry-on bag.
Pets must remain inside their carrier and under the passenger’s control throughout the journey.
Trained and certified assistance dogs are also permitted, but they must be booked in advance through the Etihad Rail Contact Centre.
What passengers should check before travelling
Before heading to the station, passengers should check their luggage size, ensure restricted items meet the relevant conditions and avoid carrying any prohibited goods. Those travelling with pets, wheelchairs, medical equipment or additional baggage should make the necessary arrangements in advance.
Following the Etihad Rail luggage and prohibited-items rules can help passengers avoid delays at the station and enjoy a more comfortable journey.