The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has announced the introduction of two new gates under the Darb Toll Gate System in Abu Dhabi. The move aims to improve traffic flow, enhance road network efficiency, and reduce congestion, particularly during peak hours.

Motorists, however, can opt for alternative routes (given below) to avoid toll charges, although this may result in longer travel times.

Locations and launch date

The two new toll gates will become operational on May 4, and will run 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

They are located at:

• Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Street in Ghantoot
• Wahat Al Karama Street, at the entrance and exit of Sheikh Zayed Street

Toll charges and exemptions

A toll fee of Dh4 per crossing will apply.

However, certain categories will continue to be exempt under Abu Dhabi’s approved toll system, including:

• Senior citizens
• People of Determination
• Low-income citizens
• Retired citizens

Alternative routes for motorists

The ITC confirmed that the locations were selected based on detailed traffic studies, including traffic density, mobility patterns, and the availability of alternative routes.

Al Qurm Toll Gate (Wahat Al Karama Street):

• Alternative routes: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Street, Arabian Gulf Street

Ghantoot Toll Gate (Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Street):

• Alternative route: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Street

According to the ITC, the addition of these gates is part of broader efforts to support Abu Dhabi’s urban expansion and rising traffic demand.

The centre will continue to monitor the system through regular evaluations, analysing traffic patterns and performance to ensure the toll network operates efficiently and meets its traffic management objectives.

The UAE-Oman railway project, officially known as Hafeet Rail, has reached 40 % completion, marking a major milestone in one of the region’s most ambitious transport initiatives.

Once operational, the cross-border rail line will connect Abu Dhabi with Sohar in just 1 hour and 40 minutes, while journeys from Al Ain to Sohar will take only 47 minutes.

First modern cross-border train in the region

Announced in 2023, the project is a joint venture between Oman Rail, Etihad Rail, and Mubadala.

Spanning 303km, the railway will be the first modern cross-border train in the Arab world, carrying both passengers and cargo between the UAE and Oman.

Route and speed

The line will run from the UAE’s existing rail network in Al Wathba to Sohar’s port, passing through varied terrain including deserts, valleys, and mountains alongside Jebel Hafeet.

• Train speed: up to 200 km/h
• Route length (main section): approx. 238km
• Travel time: significantly reduced between key cities

Major engineering works

The project includes:

• 2,500m of tunnels through mountainous terrain
• 21 overbridges and 39 underpasses
• Viaducts and bridges to ensure smooth, uninterrupted rail flow

These features will help maintain efficient travel across challenging landscapes.

Freight services between nations

Beyond passenger travel, Hafeet Rail is expected to create an integrated logistics network, strengthening trade and economic ties between the UAE and Oman. Freight locomotives will be used to power cargo services across the network, helping to strengthen regional logistics, trade flows, and supply chain efficiency between the two Gulf countries.

The project is valued at around $3 billion and is expected to play a major role in enhancing connectivity and economic integration across the region.

While construction is progressing across multiple locations, no official completion date has yet been announced.

His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the launch of the Dubai Metro Gold Line, a major new infrastructure project set to expand the emirate’s transport network.

The 24-kilometre line, with an estimated cost of Dh 34 billion, will pass through 15 key strategic areas, serving around 1.5 million residents and connecting to 55 major real estate developments currently under construction.

Key route and connectivity

The new line will run from Al Ghubaiba in the north to Jumeirah Golf Estates, linking historic and emerging parts of the city.

• Total stations: 18
• Fully underground line
• Intersections with existing Red and Green Metro Lines
• Integration with Etihad Rail passenger stations in Meydan and Jumeirah Golf Estates

Boost to metro network

The Gold Line will increase the Dubai Metro’s overall length by 25%, significantly improving connectivity across the city.

The project is scheduled for completion on September 9, 2032.

Sheikh Mohammed said the project is part of Dubai’s ongoing ambition to become the world’s best city to live in, with continued investment in infrastructure and mobility.

The new line is expected to play a key role in reducing congestion, improving travel times, and supporting urban growth across Dubai.