Dubai-Abu Dhabi by train: Etihad Rail begins service; Fares, routes and more

Etihad Rail’s first passenger trains between Dubai and Abu Dhabi completed their morning journeys on time on Wednesday, marking the launch of regular passenger services between the two emirates, according to Khaleej Times.

The first train from Dubai left at 6.14am and reached Abu Dhabi within the estimated journey time. Train 702 departed at 7.14am, while the next service was scheduled for 1.14pm.

The route is expected to attract passengers travelling for work as well as those wanting to experience the new service. Etihad Rail will operate 10 services in total between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Khaleej Times reported.

Nol pass for Dubai Metro, Tram and buses

Passengers booking Etihad Rail tickets can add a Nol One-Day Pass from Dh22. The pass allows unlimited eligible journeys on Dubai Metro, Tram and buses through a single QR code, according to Khaleej Times.

The QR code will be available on the Etihad Rail app and in the booking confirmation email. Passengers can scan or show it when required.

The regular Nol One-Day Pass costs Dh22 per passenger, while the Gold Nol One-Day Pass costs Dh42.

Gold pass holders can use first-class cabins on the Dubai Metro and Tram. They can buy the pass even if they have booked a Comfort-class ticket on Etihad Rail.

Al Yalayis station’s links to Dubai

Etihad Rail’s station at Al Yalayis is located near Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, or E311. It is close to areas including Al Furjan, Dubai Investment Park and Dubai South, Khaleej Times reported.

The station has a direct pedestrian link to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on Dubai Metro’s Red Line. The footbridge outside the station is around 400 metres long, and the walk takes about five minutes, according to a sign inside the station.

Passengers can use the Red Line to continue their journey to destinations across Dubai.

Approximate travel times from Al Yalayis by car include:

• Expo City: 10 minutes
• Jumeirah Village Circle: 17 minutes
• Dubai Hills: 18 minutes
• Palm Jumeirah: 22 minutes
• Mall of the Emirates: 25 minutes
• Al Maktoum International Airport: 27 minutes
• Dubai Mall: 29 minutes
• Dubai International Airport: 40 minutes