Etihad Rail's passenger train reaches Dubai's Al Yalayis station ahead of Sept.30 launch

Etihad Rail reached Al Yalayis station in Dubai on Tuesday, starting from Abu Dhabi on a trial journey as a precursor to the official launch of passenger rail services on the national network.

Scheduled to commence Wednesday, September 30, this launch represents a new chapter in the UAE's inter-emirate transport system. The journey, departing Abu Dhabi at 9:45 am, lasted about an hour.

Around 20 media representatives joined, experiencing the train journey firsthand and exploring the facilities and services at Al Yalayis station ahead of the inaugural official trips.

Al Yalayis station in Dubai links to the Dubai Metro, enabling passengers to access various parts of the emirate.

Al Yalayis station stands as a pivotal hub for passenger rail services, boasting modern design, comprehensive facilities, and various access options. It's well-integrated with Dubai’s public transport network, allowing passengers to continue easily onto the Dubai Metro and other modes of transport.

A Significant Milestone

Mohammed Al Shehhi, Head of the Projects Sector at Etihad Rail, highlighted that launching passenger rail services is a landmark in developing the national railway network. He mentioned that the project was completed ahead of schedule, initiated under the "Projects of the 50" initiative in December 2021, and finalized in under five years.

The Etihad Rail stations are equipped with retail outlets, enabling passengers to purchase necessities either before their journey or while waiting.

He further explained that the passenger rail services will connect 11 stations across the UAE, with each designed to integrate with other transport modes for seamless passenger movement to and from rail stations. He pointed out that Al Yalayis station in Dubai links to the Dubai Metro, enabling passengers to access various parts of the emirate while offering integrated transport options like buses and taxis, along with on-site car rental offices.

The train can accommodate approximately 400 passengers and reach speeds of up to 200 kilometers per hour, which equates to removing at least 300 cars from the roads, thereby aiding in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable transport.

Passenger Comfort

Al Shehhi pointed out that the travel experience prioritizes passenger comfort, featuring specially designed seating, laptop charging ports, complimentary Wi-Fi, and meal services in both Premium and Comfort class cabins.

The Etihad Rail prioritises passenger comfort, featuring specially designed seating, laptop charging ports, complimentary Wi-Fi, and meal services

He mentioned that stations are equipped with retail outlets, enabling passengers to purchase necessities either before their journey or while waiting. He assured that meal prices are reasonable, with meals included in the Premium Class ticket.

Integrated Transport

Athra Al Mansoori, Executive Director of the Commercial Sector at Etihad Rail Passenger Services, emphasized the connection at Al Yalayis station to the Dubai Metro network through a pedestrian bridge. This allows for easy transfers between the Etihad Rail train and the metro. She explained that this integration creates a smooth travel experience, offering convenient access to various destinations across Dubai. Additionally, she noted that there will be 10 daily trips between Abu Dhabi and Dubai and six daily trips between Abu Dhabi and Fujairah.

Continuous Training

Mohamed Al Hammadi, an Etihad Rail train captain, said that he has accumulated seven years of experience in the railway sector. He mentioned being part of the inaugural group of the Railway Diploma programme, a collaboration between the Abu Dhabi Institute of Vocational Education and Training (ADVETI) and Etihad Rail's training division, Etihad Rail Skills.

The Etihad Rail stations are equipped with retail outlets, enabling passengers to purchase necessities either before their journey or while waiting.

Al Hammadi highlighted how the programme combined theoretical study with practical application, consisting of two years of classroom learning followed by a year of hands-on training. This approach equipped participants with specialized expertise in the transportation and railway fields.

He stressed that a train captain's primary duties involve ensuring passengers travel safely and securely from their starting point to their destination, while also ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. Additionally, Al Hammadi pointed out that Etihad Rail captains receive continuous, specialized training to uphold the highest standards of safety, security, and operational efficiency necessary for managing trains and various operational scenarios.