This new addition marks a significant milestone for the park, solidifying its commitment to delivering unparalleled entertainment experiences.

Faisal Al Nuaimi, General Manager of Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, expressed excitement about the launch of the Ferrari World Esports Arena, stating: “We are thrilled to introduce our latest innovation. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to immerse visitors in the exhilarating world of virtual racing like never before. Our goal is to continuously enhance the park’s offerings, catering to diverse preferences and ensuring there is always something new to experience at the world’s leading theme park. This new attraction emphasizes our commitment to strengthening tourism in Abu Dhabi and beyond, aligning with the city’s tourism objectives. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a first-time visitor, we strive to deliver an unparalleled mix of technology, realism and thrilling competitions.”

The arena features 20 Grand Turismo simulators of which 17 are adult seats and 3 seats tailored for younger guests, ensuring a family-friendly environment for all visitors. Additionally, guests can look forward to three F1 simulators that transport participants into the driver’s seat of a Ferrari race car across various picturesque F1 Grand Prix circuits such as Yas Marina Circuit and more, for the ultimate F1 adventure. This unparalleled realism is ready to redefine what visitors expect from virtual racing simulations. Special accommodations are available for people of determination, with Ferrari World Abu Dhabi now offering two GT simulators designed to cater to their needs. This addition underscores the park’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity.

The arena features a sleek black and red floor-to-ceiling aesthetic, top-tier gaming stations equipped with high-performance PCs, professional-grade equipment and the latest consoles, ensuring a seamless and immersive gaming experience.

The Ferrari World Esports Arena will welcome guests daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The GT simulators are included in the theme park entry ticket while access to the F1 simulators will be an additional charge.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi invites guests to fasten their seatbelts and grab their helmets as they prepare for an adrenaline-pumping experience that promises to keep them on the edge of their seats. Soon, racing enthusiasts can live out their dreams of thrilling racing experiences akin to those of Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc right at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

Located on Yas Island, Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is right next to the ultimate adventure hub CLYMB Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. It is also just minutes away from the region’s largest theme park Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Yas Water World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi the world’s first and only Emirati-themed waterpark and the world’s largest indoor marine-life theme park SeaWorld® Abu Dhabi Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

For more information please visit: www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com.

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Andrew Thomas B.Ed (Hons) M.Phil NPQH – Executive Principal Al Ain English Speaking School

Cognita, a leading global schools group, expands its international community with the addition of Al Ain English Speaking School in the UAE, welcoming a further 2,000 students and 250 staff to its worldwide family.

Cognita, a leading global schools group, today announced that Al Ain English Speaking School (AAESS), in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, UAE, has joined its worldwide community, further strengthening its presence in the Middle East. This marks the group’s first-ever school in Al Ain. Established in 1978, AAESS has been providing academic excellence in the heart of the UAE to a diverse community of students, from Nursery through to Sixth Form. The school, which serves 2,000 students and employs 250 staff, now joins Cognita’s thriving community of more than 100 schools across 16 countries, educating over 90,000 students.  

Cognita’s growing family of exceptional schools already includes six schools in Dubai, one in the city of Abu Dhabi and one in Kuwait. The addition of AAESS brings the total number of Cognita schools in the Middle East to nine.

AAESS has grown from humble beginnings in a local villa to an expansive campus boasting state-of-the-art-facilities. The school prides itself on its British-based curriculum, tailored to meet the needs of its international student body, ensuring that every child is not only academically accomplished but also globally competitive and culturally aware.  Celebrating a legacy of expansion and innovation, AAESS continues to nurture the leaders of tomorrow within its vibrant, inclusive, and dynamic learning environment. The entire school community promotes growth, mutual respect, cooperation, and, most importantly, a joy for learning.

Cognita’s leadership in the region is headed by David Baldwin, Chief Executive Officer for the Middle East. David has extensive experience in global education and governance, including more than 10 years in the UAE, as well as supporting Cognita’s schools in the United Kingdom as Director of Education.

Speaking about this recent development, David Baldwin said: “It gives me great pleasure to announce the inclusion of Al Ain English Speaking School into our global family of schools.  This marks a significant milestone for Cognita, as AAESS is the first school we’ve partnered with in Al Ain. We are eager to collaborate in delivering a world-class educational experience, advancing pedagogy and empowering our students, staff and families to thrive in our rapidly evolving world.”

Mr Mohammed Al Ghussein, Chairman of Al Ain English Speaking School, shared the enthusiasm for this new chapter, expressing, ‘’We share a collective mission to enrich the educational journey of our students, ensuring they are well-equipped for success and contribute positively to the world. Whilst Cognita deeply value the unique identity and traditions of the school, they now open our classrooms to the collective wisdom of over 100 schools globally. It is exciting for the school to be part of something much bigger as it heads towards its 50^th anniversary.’’

By joining the Cognita family of schools, AAESS educators and students are now part of a global community rich in knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. School leaders and teachers will also have access to advanced and bespoke training programmes, including those developed with the world-leading IOE – Faculty of Education and Society at University College London.

The post AAESS Acquired by Cognita appeared first on The Source Family Magazine.

What do you picture when you think of Al Ain? Perhaps selfies on Jebel Hafit or getting up close with a giraffe at the famous Al Ain Zoo or stepping back in time at the century-old Qasr Al Muwaiji. A new campaign by Experience Abu Dhabi showcases all this and more, inviting viewers on a journey to discover the rich history, exciting attractions, and enticing hidden gems of the Living Oasis city, Al Ain — a destination waiting to be explored with friends and family. 

The four-part documentary-style campaign takes viewers to the heart of Al Ain, showcasing the city and surrounding region’s rich tapestry of culture, adventure, and tradition. From exploring ancient forts and lush oases to trying thrilling outdoor activities and discovering vibrant local life, the documentary follows two Emirati friends as they discover how Al Ain seamlessly offers an unparalleled tapestry of experiences that will leave you craving more. 

The campaign stars Emirati corporate banker turned photographer Obaid AlBudoor, and Salem Al Attas, an engineer by day and the first Emirati slam poet by night. The duo travel across Al Ain, trying traditional skills such as archery and horseback riding, and dive into modern-day, white-knuckle pursuits that take them out of their comfort zone. 

Just over an hour away from both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Al Ain has been inhabited for over 5,000 years. It is dotted with archaeological sites, restored forts, and early human settlements that have given rise to crafts and traditions that continue to exist till today. 

During their time in Al Ain, Obaid, and Salem find that this living oasis is a world away from the hustle of busy city life, weaving together adventure, nature, history, and culture into one incredible destination. The duo explores Al Ain’s vast oasis of lush date palms, discover secret underground rivers fed by natural mountain springs, learn about the city’s proud heritage, and spend time with welcoming locals.  

“As a photographer, traveller, and explorer, it’s very rewarding to be able to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and recharge my creative energy in such a tranquil and lush place,” said Obaid.  “There’s a unique energy to Al Ain that really made an impact on me.” 

“I thoroughly enjoyed discovering Al Ain, and I hope that those who follow our adventures—whether white-water rafting, trying local crafts, delving into Al Ain’s vibrant coffee and café culture, or immersing themselves in all it has to offer—are inspired to visit and create their own unforgettable memories in this amazing destination” added Salem.

Have Obaid and Salem inspired you to have your own Al Ain adventure? Take your friends or family to Al Ain to discover for yourself that a destination is not just about what you do, it’s how it makes you feel when you’re there. You will discover that this living oasis has a vibe of its own.

The documentary-series ‘Al Ain: A Living Oasis’ debuted on 19th August 2024, watch here https://visitalain.ae/en/campaign/al-ain-living-oasis

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Surf Abu Dhabi, the groundbreaking wave facility owned and operated by Modon Holding, features the world-leading wave technology from the Kelly Slater Wave Company (KSWC), the innovative wave technology and surf experience company. Through this partnership, the team created a high-performance wave that will be an incredible canvas for the world’s best surfing. 

“We’re looking forward to seeing what the Surf Abu Dhabi facility can deliver for the world’s best surfers – and the broader surfing world – in the future,” said Ryan Crosby, WSL CEO. “Both the evolving wave technology and the region itself present interesting opportunities for the WSL, and we’re excited to see that come to life in the coming months.”

“The collaboration with Kelly Slater Wave Company and Surf Abu Dhabi allows us to build a destination ready to welcome surfers from all levels and communities and nurture a new generation of surfers in the region. Together, we’ve created a facility that provides perfect waves time and time again, new wave profiles suitable for every level, and the uniqueness of this being the first saltwater-based wave pool. We can’t wait to welcome the world’s best surfers and all the new fans this region is bringing to the sport,” said Bill O’Regan, Group CEO at Q Holding. 

“The collaboration with the Kelly Slater Wave Company and Surf Abu Dhabi showcases our creation of a world-class facility that will provide perfect waves to a region to help grow an entirely new Surf Community in Abu Dhabi,” said Jeff Fleeher, Kelly Slater Wave Company President. “The partnership with the WSL now amplifies this opportunity, creating a platform to showcase the world’s best surfers to both new and existing fans, seated in the heart of Hudayriat Island’s broader sports ecosystem.”

The WSL Championship Tour is the highest tier of competitive surfing that crowns the annual World Champions. Surf Abu Dhabi will be amongst the elite surfing venues to host the world’s best surfers in the 2025 season. The full schedule of competitions for the 2025 CT will be released following the Lexus WSL Finals, but so far, Surf Abu Dhabi will join world-renowned venues such as the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore of Oahu, Snapper Rocks in Queensland, Australia, and Cloudbreak in Fiji. 

The WSL Longboard Tour features three international events leading into the one-day Championship in El Salvador. Surf Abu Dhabi will host the third stop of the Longboard Tour, the Abu Dhabi Longboard Classic Presented by Modon, from September 27 – 29, 2024. This competition will play a critical role in determining the qualifiers for the Surf City El Salvador Longboard Championships, which will crown the men’s and women’s Longboard World Champions in October. 

Watch LIVE

The Abu Dhabi Longboard Classic Presented by Modon will be broadcast LIVE on WorldSurfLeague.com and the free WSL app. Check out more ways to watch from the WSL’s broadcast partners. 

For more information, please visit WorldSurfLeague.com. 

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This guide provides essential financial tips tailored specifically for expat teachers, helping you make the most of teacher discounts, manage tax duties, and take advantage of deals. By being financially savvy, you can focus on what you love most—teaching—while enjoying all that the UAE has to offer (which is a lot!). Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate your finances and make the most of your new life as a teacher in the UAE.

Look for Teacher Deals

As a teacher in the UAE, you can benefit from numerous discounts and special offers. Many businesses, including bookstores, tech stores, and restaurants, provide exclusive deals for educators. These discounts can help you save on fun experiences with your friends and family, gadgets, and even daily expenses. Always carry your school ID and ask about teacher discounts wherever you shop. Joining local teacher networks and online forums can also keep you updated on the latest offers, ensuring you maximize your savings.

Understand Tax and Legal Implications

Although the UAE offers tax-free income, expat teachers must understand their home country’s tax obligations. For instance, U.S. and UK citizens may still need to report earnings and possibly pay taxes. Consulting a tax advisor familiar with both UAE and home country laws is advisable. Additionally, ensure your employer sponsors your residency visa and work permit. Proper documentation is crucial to avoid legal issues and penalties, ensuring a smooth teaching experience in the UAE.

Take Advantage of 50% off Yearly Mobile Bills with Virgin Mobile UAE

New teachers in the UAE can save significantly by signing up for Virgin Mobile UAE’s Yearly Plans, which offer up to 50% off when you pay upfront for a year. This plan not only cuts costs but also ensures uninterrupted mobile service throughout the year. Additionally, you can earn up to 8% cashback each month, which can be used for boosters, roaming, and other services. This discount can substantially reduce your mobile expenses, allowing you to allocate funds to other essential areas.

Sign Up for Discount and Savings Programs

Beyond educator discounts, the UAE offers countless services to maximize savings. The Entertainer provides access to thousands of buy-one-get-one offers for dining, attractions, beauty, and fitness programs, perfect for outings with friends or family. You can also sign up for Privilee or Class Pass for affordable access to gyms, fitness classes, and beach clubs across the UAE—which are often cheaper than a single annual gym membership. Also, don’t forget to check if your school provides a Fazaa Card, which offers discounts on many services across the UAE. So much so, it might even become a reflex to ask, “Do you have a Fazaa discount?” when you ask for the bill.

Starting your teaching career in the UAE is an incredible opportunity that comes with its own set of financial considerations. By being smart and informed about your decisions, you can make the most of your time in the Emirates. There are a lot of things to look forward to, so be prepared and enjoy everything this vibrant country has to offer!

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The Zoo’s animal care and veterinary teams have been diligently pairing Arabian sand cats based on their Genetic origins and age groups at the Arabian Sand Cat Breeding Center. This is the first specialized facility globally dedicated for taking care and breeding of these rare animals, operating under international standards.

The newborns are in good health and are thriving in an environment that meets global standards. They receive comprehensive care from the Zoo’s team, which follows best practices in veterinary, nutritional, and behavioral care, allowing the Al Ain Zoo to offer unique and enjoyable experiences for its visitors.

Engineer Ahmed Eisa Al Harasi, Acting Director General of the Zoo & Aquarium Public Institution in Al Ain, stated: “We are pleased with the birth of these three cats and proud of the success of our breeding program. We will continue to implement specialized programs and conduct field research to study and breed these species in their natural habitats.” He added that the Arabian sand cat is a vital desert creature contributing to the ecological balance of the desert ecosystem. At Al Ain Zoo, we aim to raise community awareness about the desert environment and the importance of preserving it. Looking ahead, we are committed to studying the genetic patterns of the Arabian sand cat, increasing its population, and collaborating with local and global entities in the field of conservation and protection.”

One of Al Ain Zoo’s most significant achievements in the Arabian sand cat protection program is its collaboration with various environmental agencies dedicated to preserving the species. This effort resulted in the publication of the first strategy for the conservation of the sand cat and the first management plan for sand cat populations. These were discussed in workshops hosted by the Zoo, which were the first of their kind globally for Arabian sand cat conservation, with participation from Arab, regional, and international experts.

In the field of wildlife research, Al Ain Zoo continues its efforts to monitor and study the population of Arabian sand cats within the zoo. These research efforts aim to better understand and observe the ecology and behavior of the sand cats.

The post Al Ain Zoo: Birth of new Endangered Arabian Sand Cat appeared first on The Source Family Magazine.

“The key thing that I would want all parents to know is that screens aren’t all good or all bad,” Dr. Ameenuddin says. “A lot of this depends on how you use screens.”

Dr. Ameenuddin says there’s no evidence that television shows or screen time for young kids have any benefit. Therefore, it’s best to try to avoid screen time for kids under 2 years old, with the exception of video chatting with grandparents or other relatives.

“For kids who are between 2 and 5 years of age, no more than about one hour of high-quality educational content, ideally with little to no commercial time,” she says.

For kids 5 and older, it’s a little more nuanced.

“Once kids are 5 years and older, and they’re in school, we used to say no more than two hours of screen time a day of noneducational content,” Dr. Ameenuddin says. “But we understand that that’s hard to do. And then oftentimes kids are using screens for really good reasons, for doing schoolwork. So really, what we’ve started to say is let’s make sure it is not taking the place of other important activities, whether that’s schoolwork or physical activity, and certainly sleep.”

“There is potentially a benefit for children in the preschool age with high-quality educational content. There are wonderful shows that have been around for decades that are really focused on teaching kids,” she says.

Dr. Ameenuddin says a little bit of high-quality television can help kids learn about other people and cultures.

“There was actually a study done, and as much as we talk about how we don’t want to spend a lot of time in front of screens, there is a benefit,” Dr. Ameenuddin says. “There can be diversity enhancement. When children see children of other backgrounds playing with each other, they’re actually more likely to say, when shown a group of pictures, that they might want to play with a child of a different background from what they might be used to or from their own background.”

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Engaging in self-care practices extends beyond mere pampering; it nurtures our physical and emotional well-being, enhances our mood, resilience, stress management, and reduces the risk of chronic illnesses.

In line with Abu Dhabi 360’s ethos, self-care should be integrated into our daily lives through small but meaningful actions. These practices help us stay energised, fulfilled, and ready to support others. As John Bromley, a Public Health Consultant working closely with the initiative, aptly puts it, “Sustainable self-care is about creating moments within each day, week, month, season, and year to nurture our mind, body, and soul, leading to a healthier and more joyful life.”

In case you need some inspiration, five of Abu Dhabi 360’s third-party experts have compiled the following tips for treating yourself kindly, because self-care is an ongoing journey — and it looks a little bit different for everyone: 

Designate Weekly Self-Care Time:

Certified Nutritionist, Dr. Mona Mobarak shares her weekly ritual of dedicating Sundays to plan and prepare for self-care activities. She emphasises, “On Sunday afternoons, I like to tackle certain tasks so I’m mentally prepared for the week. Planning and cooking healthy meals for my family or scheduling my workouts make me feel less overwhelmed.”

Quick Tip: Use a planner or calendar to schedule specific self-care activities for the upcoming week. This proactive approach helps in prioritising self-care and ensures that essential tasks are incorporated into your routine.

Cultivate Social Connections:

Dr. Haseeb Rohilla, a Specialist Psychiatrist, emphasises the importance of nurturing social connections to alleviate stress and combat feelings of isolation. He advises, “Social support is a powerful buffer against stress and anxiety. Spending time with people who care about you can help you feel more connected and less isolated.”

Quick Tip: Make a conscious effort to schedule regular social activities with friends or family members. Whether it’s a weekly video call, a coffee date, or a group exercise class, prioritise interactions that nurture your relationships and well-being.

Begin the Day with a Morning Walk:

Chief Podiatrist at Dubai Podiatry Centre, Dr. Michelle Champlin suggests incorporating a morning walk into your routine, especially if you’re working long hours. She highlights, “Whether I’m working from home or in the office, starting my day with a morning walk not only helps me stay physically active but also provides a mental break and a chance to reconnect with nature.”

Quick Tip: Set a designated time each morning for your walk and stick to it. Whether it’s a brisk stroll around your neighbourhood or a leisurely nature hike, starting your day with movement can boost energy levels and improve focus throughout the day.

Explore New Exercise Regimens:

Health Coach, Futtaim Beljaflah recommends diversifying your exercise routine to avoid monotony and reignite motivation. She advises, “As a RIDE instructor, I eagerly anticipate each class, always striving to create different themes from music to workouts, knowing that my attendees will leave feeling uplifted and energised, just as I do.”

Quick Tip: When trying out a new exercise regimen, start slowly and gradually increase the intensity or frequency over time. Listen to your body and give yourself permission to rest when needed. Celebrate your progress and focus on how the activity makes you feel, both physically and mentally.

Integrate Mindful Workouts:

Rola Ghaddar, a Certified Yoga Instructor, encourages incorporating mindfulness into workouts for enhanced mental and physical benefits. She shares, “Yoga serves as a grounding practice that benefits both my mind and body, allowing me to find inner peace while connecting with others in the community.”

Quick Tip: Practice mindfulness during your workouts by focusing on your breath and body sensations. Take breaks to check in with yourself mentally and emotionally. Remember that it’s okay to modify poses or movements to suit your comfort level and needs.

Nurture Personal Self-Care Rituals:

All Abu Dhabi 360 experts agree that when you look good, you feel good. Set aside regular time for self-care activities that leave you feeling empowered and rejuvenated. As they collectively advise, “Self-care is well worth carving out the time for. It’s important to take care of yourself to be able to do the things you need and want.” 

Quick Tip: Create a self-care routine that reflects your unique preferences and needs. Whether it’s a daily skincare ritual, a weekly spa night, or a monthly hobby or activity, prioritise activities that replenish your energy and nurture your well-being.

Download the Abu Dhabi 360 app for more guides and resources.

The post 6 Ways to Prioritise Self-Care appeared first on The Source Family Magazine.

In a momentous occasion for the Hindu community in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi welcomed a staggering 65,000 pilgrims and visitors on the first Sunday since its public opening. 

The faithful came in busloads and carloads with over 40,000 visiting in the morning and a further 25,000 during the evening. Despite the sizeable crowds, the visitors, grouped in batches of 2,000, queued patiently and progressed orderly into the Mandir campus. People felt blessed upon receiving darshan of the murtis as a great sense of peace and devotion marked the day.

Sumant Rai from Abu Dhabi exclaimed, “Never have I seen such amazing order in the midst of thousands of people. I was worried I would have to wait for hours and not be able to do darshan peacefully, but we had amazing darshan and were extremely satisfied. Hats off to all the BAPS volunteers and Mandir staff.”

Pravina Shah from London gave her experience of her first visit to the BAPS Hindu Mandir, stating, “I have a disability and the care given by the staff despite thousands of visitors was remarkable. I could see the crowds of people being ushered peacefully from one zone to the next.”

Balchandra from Kerala shared, “I thought I would be lost in the sea of people, but I was so surprised with how well the visit was managed. I was able to peacefully enjoy darshan. Can’t wait until my next visit.”

Visitors were able to enjoy darshan of the beautiful Mandir and offer their prayers collectively. The enthusiasm to take part in the religious rituals of the abhishek and the arti left many people feeling emotional as they experienced peace and tranquillity. Many were also in awe of the mandir’s intricate architecture. The vibrant colours of clothing worn by visitors created a sea of hues, adding to the festive atmosphere. Eagerly anticipating their visit, people travelled from far and wide, having expectations surpassed by the joy and serenity they experienced.

Neha and Pankaj, who have lived in Dubai for 40 years, exclaimed, “We have been waiting for this moment, and the Mandir has exceeded all our expectations! It’s a true marvel. We feel blessed because now we have a place to come and offer our prayers and feel the spirituality.”

Piyush from Portland, USA, said, “The opening of this Mandir is a testament to the UAE’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. It’s a beautiful representation of unity among different communities.”

Luis from Mexico remarked, “The architecture and intricate details in the stones are amazing. I really appreciate getting to see the cultural heritage of India. People, come join!”

Brahmaviharidas Swami, reflecting on the historic significance of the opening Sunday for the public, stated, “We are deeply grateful to the leaders of the UAE and the local authorities for the new bus services and their all-round support in making this day a reality. We would also like to thank the pilgrims who were so patient and so understanding during their visit. This Mandir will serve as a beacon of spirituality and a hub of harmony, bringing together people of all backgrounds and beliefs.”

The UAE government’s dedication to accessibility and inclusivity was further highlighted by the introduction of a new bus route (203) from Abu Dhabi to the Mandir, facilitating weekend visits and emphasising the country’s commitment to fostering cultural diversity and inclusivity.

The BAPS Hindu Mandir in Abu Dhabi not only marks a significant milestone in promoting spiritual and cultural unity, but also stands as a testament to the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to diversity and inclusion. As the doors of the Mandir remain open, it continues to welcome all who seek peace, spirituality, and a sense of community.

To know more visit:  https://www.baps.org/Publications/Audios/Audio-Book/Hinduism-FAQs-1490.aspx

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The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) of the Department of Municipalities and Transport in Abu Dhabi has announced the integration of city and suburban transport services into the “Standard Service,” which will be launched on Wednesday, 28th February 2024.

The “Standard Service” fare will be set at AED2 (Boarding Fee) plus an additional 5 fils for every kilometer crossed. 

This reflects the ITC’s relentless efforts in encouraging the use of public transport services, striving to realise the increased demand on public transport services, and reinforcing integration between its journeys to provide efficient services across the emirate, which would positively influence environmental sustainability and enhance the quality of life in the Emirate.

Expanding Geographic Range of Public Transport Passes:

The Integrated Transport Centre has expanded the geographical range of public transport passes so that the “Standard Service” will include city and suburb areas in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra (excluding intercity services). Public Transport Passes are now at the following prices, and is effective as of the date of purchase:

7-day pass is worth AED35

30-day pass is worth AED95

Updated pasess will be sold as of February 28th, 2024.

Passes operating under the previous system will stop being sold as of February 27th, 2024.

All passes issued before this 28th of February will remain valid until their expiration; it will be active within the city only in Abu Dhabi, Al ain Ain and Al Dhafra; and does not cover the suburbs areas- “Standard Service” are not inclusive.

Free transfer when Switching between Public Transport Services The ITC explained that users of public transport buses can switch between services without paying an additional AED2.00 (boarding fee).

Conditions:

Tap- in to the other service within 60 minutes of the last tap-out.

Not to transfer in the opposite direction of the journey.

Maximum 2 transfers using 3 buses.

Transfer conditions apply between Abu Dhabi Link service and public transportation bus Standard Services.

Calculating the Cost of a Single journey when Switching Buses:

Fare is calculated based on distance traveled between point of boarding and alighting; it is mandatory to tap Hafilat card on the reader when boarding and alighting from each bus. 

This ensures that the journey is regarded as a single trip; failure to tap the “Hafilat” smart card when boarding and alighting using all public transport services may result in penalties of public transport, as well as deducting the cost of the entire bus route when using the card again in the event of missing to tap-out of the bus when transferring between services or using the bus again, as it is assumed that the passenger continued riding the bus until the end of the route (the maximum possible distance). 

Therefore, passengers are kindly advised to remember to tap card on the reader when boarding and alighting from each bus.

Annual Passes for Personalised Hafilat Card Holders:

No changes will be made to the following categories: 

• free annual passes for seniors and people of determination+ 1 companion, 

• along with the annual passes for students worth AED 500. 

These passes will cover the “Standard Service” in all areas across the Emirate (excluding intercity services). 

Transport remains free for those age of 10 years and below.

It is worth mentioning that the number of passenger journeys on public buses in 2023 exceeded 83 million passenger trips. By the end of the last year, the total fleet of public buses in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi reached 825 buses, all equipped with modern and advanced specifications, operating with improved fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Public buses are witnessing increasing popularity among the public due to the quality of services, route integration, and the diversification of travel options, allowing users to reach their destinations with convenience, speed, comfort, and safety.

For more information please visit: https://itc.gov.ae/en/pb-bus-service

The post Integrated Transport Centre appeared first on The Source Family Magazine.