No more traffic congestion and parking issues; Dubai-Abu Dhabi travel made easier

DUBAI: With the start of the Dubai–Abu Dhabi Etihad Rail passenger service, UAE rolls out yet another comfy addition to their travel services. The first train to Abu Dhabi departed from Dubai's Al Yalayis station at 6:14 AM today. Many passengers arrived early in the morning to be part of this historic journey.

Passengers were welcomed at the station with a traditional reception featuring music and dance. Special gifts were also arranged for those travelling on the inaugural train. The passenger train service operates between Al Yalayis Station in Dubai and Mohammed Bin Zayed City Station in Abu Dhabi. The first train arrived in Abu Dhabi at 7:18 AM. Subsequently, the train departed from Abu Dhabi for Dubai at 7:43 AM, arriving back at Al Yalayis Station at 8:47 AM.

Those passengers who had the opportunity to travel on the initial run spoke highly of the facilities provided inside the train. Passengers remarked that the new train would bring significant relief to those who commute daily by car between Dubai and Abu Dhabi. They noted that a one-way road journey often takes up to two hours. Expatriates believe the passenger train will give relief to commuters from the prevailing traffic congestion and parking issues.

Authorities have currently decided to operate ten services daily. Passengers who book tickets in advance online can travel at a lower fare. The fare for 'Comfort Class' tickets is 39 Dirhams (approximately Rs 1,019) when booked via the website or application, whereas purchasing them directly from ticket vending machines at stations costs 60 Dirhams (approximately Rs 1,567). By booking online, passengers can save up to 21 Dirhams (approximately Rs 548).