Dubai opens first Gulf metro

Dubai inaugurated its metro system - the first in the Gulf - on Wednesday in an effort to reduce traffic congestion. The emirates ruler Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum was present at the opening and was on the first train that rolled out of the Mall Emirates station, along with other dignitaries. The new metro system will only open to commuters on Thursday. As the train went through empty stations on Wednesday, fireworks were set off in celebration. Authorities hope the metro will lure people away from their cars.