In a major boost to national transport readiness, Etihad Rail has successfully operated a passenger train connecting Al Ghuwaifat on the Saudi border to Al Faya in Abu Dhabi.

The operation forms part of the project’s ongoing trial runs, and it’s not just about testing tracks.

Strategic passenger link activated

The trial run was conducted in coordination with the Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre Abu Dhabi (ADCMC).

The link between Al Ghuwaifat and Al Faya is designed to:

• Support transport of residents
• Enable authorities to activate alternative routes
• Strengthen emergency response mechanisms
• Enhance national transport continuity

This is part of broader response plans aimed at maintaining stability during various operational scenarios.

Focus on logistics and risk management

According to Etihad Rail, the trial run ensures:

• Integration of roles between government entities
• Stronger logistical security
• Alignment with business continuity strategies
• Multi-scenario risk management preparedness

In short, it’s about making sure the system works seamlessly when it matters most.

Eng. Mohammed Al Shehhi, Chief Projects Officer at Etihad Rail, emphasised that the goal is to provide:

• Safe
• Reliable
• Well-organised transport solutions

Especially during periods when maintaining the national transport ecosystem is critical.

He added that teams continue working closely with government partners to ensure sustainable operations and smooth traffic flow across the country.

The UAE’s rail network is increasingly playing a strategic role beyond cargo, evolving into a backbone for passenger movement, emergency readiness, and cross-border connectivity.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially postponed more Class 10 and Class 12 board examinations across several Middle East countries, impacting thousands of Indian curriculum students.

The decision applies to exams scheduled on March 5 and March 6.

What students need to know

In its latest update issued on Tuesday, CBSE released Circular-2, extending its earlier announcement made on March 1.

Here’s what’s confirmed:

• Exams on Thursday, March 5
• Exams on Friday, March 6
• Applicable to both Class 10 and Class 12
• Applies to CBSE-affiliated schools in multiple Gulf countries

Countries affected by postponement

The postponement impacts CBSE schools across:

• UAE
• Bahrain
• Iran
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia

Thousands of students across these countries are now awaiting revised exam dates.

CBSE to review situation on March 5

CBSE has clarified that:

• New exam dates will be announced later
• The Board will reassess the situation on March 5, 2026
• A decision regarding exams scheduled from March 7 onwards will follow after review

This means more updates could be coming soon.

How will students be marked?

CBSE has confirmed that marks will be awarded through a composite evaluation method, which includes:

• Internal assessments
• Pre-board examination performance
• Continuous evaluation records

This means students will not be required to reappear for the cancelled language papers.

“No student will be failed”

In a significant assurance to students and parents, the Board clarified that:

No student will be failed in the affected subjects.

The move is expected to ease anxiety among families who have been closely monitoring exam updates.

Advisory for students and parents

Students are advised to:

• Stay in close contact with their respective schools
• Follow only official CBSE announcements
• Avoid unverified updates circulating online

Schools will communicate further instructions as needed.

The postponement comes amid ongoing uncertainty in parts of the region, creating stress and confusion for families and students preparing for one of the most important academic phases of their school journey.

More updates are expected if further changes are made.

Amid ongoing regional developments, the UAE National Media Council has reminded the public to strictly follow laws governing media content and information sharing.

Here’s what that actually means in practical terms.

Why is this being emphasised now

During sensitive periods, misinformation can spread quickly — especially on social media. Authorities say responsible media awareness helps protect public safety, maintain stability and prevent unnecessary panic.

What are you not allowed to do

According to official guidance, residents should:

• Do not film, record or circulate videos, audio clips or images from unofficial sources
• Avoid reposting rumours or unverified claims
• Refrain from sharing content that could incite panic, harm public interest or violate someone’s privacy

Even forwarding unverified content can fall under this warning.

What can you share

You are encouraged to:

• Rely only on verified updates from official UAE authorities and institutions
• Share information issued through government channels
• Use social media responsibly and thoughtfully

The key rule: if it’s not from an official source, don’t amplify it.

Are there consequences

Yes. Authorities have made clear that legal action will be taken against anyone found violating these instructions, in accordance with UAE law.

What if you have security concerns

Residents can report security-related concerns directly to the State Security Department via the official hotline.

Pause before posting. In fast-moving situations, responsible sharing protects both individuals and the wider community.