You can now travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai by train

On Wednesday, Etihad Rail launched its first regular passenger train service between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, according to the Khaleej Times. The inaugural train from Dubai departed at 6:14am and reached Abu Dhabi within the estimated time frame. Additional services were scheduled for 7:14am and 1:14pm.

Etihad Rail anticipates the route will be popular with both business travelers and those interested in experiencing the new service. The rail company will operate a total of 10 services between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

For passengers, the convenience extends beyond the train journey. Those booking Etihad Rail tickets can add a Nol One-Day Pass for Dh22, granting unlimited eligible journeys on Dubai Metro, Tram, and buses via a single QR code. The QR code can be accessed through the Etihad Rail app or in the booking confirmation email. Passengers can present the QR code when required.

The Gold Nol One-Day Pass, priced at Dh42, allows first-class cabin usage on Dubai Metro and Tram. Even if a Comfort-class ticket is booked on Etihad Rail, Gold pass holders can still avail themselves of this perk.

Al Yalayis, the rail station in Dubai, is conveniently located near Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, or E311. It is in close proximity to areas such as Al Furjan, Dubai Investment Park, and Dubai South. A pedestrian link connects Al Yalayis to Jumeirah Golf Estates Metro Station on Dubai Metro's Red Line, with a short 400-meter footbridge taking about five minutes to cross.

Approximate travel times from Al Yalayis by car include: Expo City in 10 minutes, Jumeirah Village Circle in 17 minutes, Dubai Hills in 18 minutes, Palm Jumeirah in 22 minutes, Mall of the Emirates in 25 minutes, Al Maktoum International Airport in 27 minutes, Dubai Mall in 29 minutes, and Dubai International Airport in 40 minutes.