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Etihad Rail’s high-speed passenger trains unveiled: What travellers should know

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Etihad Rail has revealed the final designs of its highly anticipated passenger trains, set to transform inter-emirate travel in the UAE. The model, showcased at the Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition and Conference in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, featured the train’s distinctive silver exterior adorned with Etihad Rail’s signature black-and-red logo.

Three-Class Comfort for Every Passenger
The new trains will offer Economy, Family, and First Class cabins. Economy Class features face-to-face seating in dark grey, while Family Class provides opposing seats with a larger central table. First Class offers wide, adjustable seats for ultimate comfort. All cabins include foldable tables behind each seat, overhead luggage compartments, and designated spaces for larger baggage.

Fast Connections Across the UAE
Set to launch in 2026, Etihad Rail will connect Abu Dhabi to Dubai in just 57 minutes. Additional journeys include Abu Dhabi to Fujairah in around 100 minutes and Abu Dhabi to Ruwais in approximately 70 minutes. Trains are designed to operate at speeds up to 200 km/h.

Train Models and Capacity
Two train models will operate on the network: Chinese-manufactured CRC coaches with around 365 seats and Spanish-built CAF coaches with about 369 seats. Both models share the same three-class layout, though minor design differences exist. Crew uniforms will feature cream and red, while train drivers will wear grey and black.

Smart Stations and Easy Booking
Passengers will enter stations using smart electronic gates. Tickets can be booked online in advance, while vending machines at stations, displayed during the conference in black-and-grey, will allow passengers to select travel class, departure and arrival stations, and special requests. Payment options include cash, debit/credit cards, and Apple Pay.

Ticket prices and details on connecting transport options, including public buses, are expected to be announced closer to the 2026 launch.


With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Dh1,000 fine and 4 black points: Dubai Police issue warning on sudden swerving

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Dubai Police have issued a renewed and stern warning to motorists regarding the dangers of sudden swerving, labelling the manoeuvre as a primary catalyst for fatalities and severe collisions on the emirate’s high-speed roads.

Major General Saif Muhair Al Mazrouei, Assistant Commander-in-Chief for Operations Affairs, highlighted that while missing an exit or attempting a quick overtake may seem minor, the resulting “side-impact collisions, loss of vehicle control, and rollovers” are often life-altering.

The split-second danger

Recent monitoring by Dubai Police has recorded a surge in incidents where drivers changed lanes without indicators or ensured the road was clear. On high-speed corridors, these actions leave zero reaction time for surrounding motorists.

“Arriving late is far better than not arriving at all,” said Major General Al Mazrouei. “Missing an exit never justifies putting lives at risk. We urge the public to remain calm, use indicators correctly, and avoid impulsive decisions behind the wheel.”

The cost of a sudden turn

To deter risky behaviour, Dubai Police reminded the public of the strict penalties under Article 29 of the Federal Traffic Law. Motorists caught swerving suddenly face:

  • A Dh1,000 fine.
  • Four black points added to their traffic file.

Community vigilance: We are all police

Road safety is a shared responsibility. The public is encouraged to report dangerous driving behaviour via the “Police Eye” feature on the Dubai Police smart app or by using the “We Are All Police” service by calling 901.

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Middle East

The Philippines guarantees unemployment cash benefits for Middle East overseas workers amid regional crisis

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As a 14-day ceasefire brings a temporary lull to regional conflict, the Social Security System (SSS) of the Philippines has issued a major reassurance to its 540,000+ active paying OFW members across the Middle East. SSS President Robert Joseph de Claro confirmed today that digital infrastructure remains fully operational, ensuring that displaced workers can access critical “Unemployment Benefits” and pension services regardless of the security situation on the ground.

Who qualifies?

With over 4,300 Filipinos already repatriated as of April 6, the SSS “Unemployment Benefit” serves as a vital bridge for those involuntarily separated from their jobs. To qualify, OFW members must meet the following:

  • Age: 60 years old or below.
  • Contributions: At least 36 monthly contributions, with 12 months paid within the 18 months immediately preceding the job loss.
  • Certification: Involuntary separation must be certified by the DMW (formerly POEA).
  • Timeline: Applications must be submitted via the My.SSS portal within one year of separation.

Recognising the difficulty of physical travel during the current conflict, SSS has launched a breakthrough Facial Authentication with Liveness Check for its pensioners. This allows retirees in the Middle East to complete their Annual Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) via smartphone, eliminating the need to visit embassies or consulates.

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Heading to Abu Dhabi this weekend? What motorists need to know about road closures 

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Abu Dhabi Mobility has announced a series of temporary traffic modifications and partial road closures affecting major arteries in the capital starting today, Friday, April 10, through Monday, April 13, 2026.

The scheduled works will impact Al Fursan Street and Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20), key routes connecting Khalifa City and Zayed City. Motorists are urged to exercise caution and plan for potential delays.

The closure schedule:

To minimise weekday disruption, the closures are concentrated over the weekend:

  • Friday, April 10 (2pm – Monday, April 13 (5am): The right lane on Al Fursan Street heading towards Abu Dhabi will be closed. Traffic flow will be maintained on the remaining open lanes.
  • Saturday, April 11 (12am) – Sunday, April 12 (11pm): A full closure of entry and exit points on Al Fursan Street will be in effect.

Guidance for motorists

Abu Dhabi Mobility has implemented a comprehensive traffic management plan. While diversions will be clearly marked with directional signage, authorities recommend the following:

  • Plan in advance: Use navigation apps to check for real-time congestion before departing.
  • Alternative routes: Utilise surrounding roads, including the main Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20) corridor, to bypass the affected zones.
  • Safety first: Adhere to posted speed limits within diversion zones to ensure the safety of road crews and fellow drivers.

These measures are part of ongoing scheduled works designed to improve the capital’s infrastructure and long-term traffic efficiency.

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