Etihad Railway is expected to stimulate Fujairah's real estate market by attracting investors

The Etihad Rail passenger network is anticipated to transform Fujairah's real estate market, as developers and real estate experts predict increased demand, higher property values, and an influx of new investments, making the emirate more accessible to the rest of the UAE.

Industry leaders note that improved transport connectivity can transform Fujairah from a destination for short trips into a full-fledged place for living, working, and investing. This also opens up new opportunities for residential, retail, and mixed-use developments around the new railway stations.

Nassar Tajalli, General Manager of Fujairah Real Estate Agency, suggested that initial demand will arise in the areas of the Fujairah and Sakamkam stations. He stated that there will first be healthy interest in residential plots and villas near these stations, followed by attractive demand for retail and mixed-use development as these areas develop.

In the long term, Tajalli forecasts that well-located properties near the stations could increase by 20–30 percent between 2029 and 2031. This growth will be accompanied by an improved quality of life due to reduced travel time, better amenities, and increased employment opportunities.

With over two decades of experience observing the Fujairah real estate market, he noted that the emirate has long been underestimated despite its lifestyle appeal.

Fujairah is the only emirate in the UAE located entirely on the eastern coast, bordering Oman and facing the Arabian Gulf. Known for its mountains, beaches, and diving spots, it has become a popular destination for residents seeking a quieter lifestyle.

According to Property Finder data, searches for property sales in Fujairah reached the highest monthly figure in July—8,337 inquiries. The number of leads also increased: rental leads rose by 11.1 percent to 1,306, and sales leads rose by 2.2 percent to 92 between June and July 2026.

One of the first Etihad Rail stations was opened in Al Hilal city. Sherif Sleiman, Revenue Director at Property Finder, believes this moment should be closely monitored, as the map showing where housing demand outpaces supply is beginning to align with the map of new inter-emirate infrastructure.

Fibha Ahmed, Vice President of Sales at Bayut and dubizzle Property, believes the impact of Etihad Rail will extend far beyond just residential demand. She noted that the launch of Etihad Rail passenger services could be a turning point for Fujairah's real estate market, as improved connectivity makes previously overlooked markets more attractive to both locals and investors.

Ahmed emphasized that Fujairah already offers relatively affordable housing, spacious properties, and a unique lifestyle. Railway connectivity strengthens this offering for buyers looking to get the best value while remaining connected to the country's main employment hubs.

Furthermore, she added that improved accessibility could support tourism, attract business activity, and stimulate investment in infrastructure and mixed-use projects, laying the foundation for sustainable real estate market growth. However, she also noted that expanding free ownership options will be equally important for attracting long-term investors.

Ahmed concluded that while connectivity can bring people to the market, investors also need access to suitable properties, clear ownership structures, and confidence that they can own the asset for a long time.