‘Full of goosebumps’: First passengers hail Etihad Rail’s debut Dubai–Abu Dhabi service

Abu Dhabi: Katerina DjKattyLeen, the first rider on Etihad Rail's Dubai to Abu Dhabi service, was captivated by the experience. The long commute between the two cities has traditionally involved traffic and parking woes. Etihad Rail's inaugural train service, launched from Al Yalayis Station in Dubai at 6.14am, arrived in Abu Dhabi at 7.18am.

Katerina purchased two tickets, one in Premium and one in Comfort, to compare the classes. She was particularly impressed by the quality of the cutlery, made from palm tree fibers. Sultan Lootah, who works in Abu Dhabi, called the journey "amazing" and a "different experience" compared to the Dubai Metro. He valued the time saved and the stress-free travel.

Omar El-Gahed, an engineer based in Dubai, noted that the train could change his daily routine, potentially becoming a daily commute. The day's celebrations included live performances, with passengers greeted with music and dance upon arrival. Each passenger received a commemorative gift, including a souvenir coin and luggage tag.