A further 15,000 tickets have also been released for the landmark event…

Ahead of the Pope’s public mass in Abu Dhabi next month, organisers have revealed travel restrictions to ensure all ticket holders reach the event.

The Papal mass will take place at the Zayed Sports City Stadium in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday February 5 at 10.30am. Although originally only 120,000 tickets were released, The National reports that now a further 15,000 tickets will be issued to Catholics wishing to attend.

Ticket holders will receive both an entry ticket and a transport ticket, with access to the event granted via a choice of ‘Access Hubs’. Upon collection of tickets, you’ll be able to select the most convenient ‘Access Hub’, and will need to make your own way to that hub on the day of the mass.

The official website advises that ‘the faithful should leave their homes early, and arrive at the Access Hub early to guarantee a seat on the buses’. It also states that changing your Access Hub is strictly not allowed.

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If you’re driving in your own car, you will need to park on Yas Island, and then take free shuttle buses to the Zayed Sports City Stadium where the mass will be held.

If you live in Abu Dhabi and the stadium is within walking distance, you’re advised to carry your Emirates ID along with your tickets, and follow police guidance.

A system will be put in place for those who require special assistance such as those with disabilities, elderly or pregnant women although, assistance will only be provided for a “very limited” few, so be sure to arrive early.

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Organisers have also advised those headed to the mass to be prepared to wait up to five hours in the stadium, and although you’re not allowed to bring food or drink inside the stadium, free water will be available once inside, and the venue will be selling food after the mass.

If you didn’t manage to secure a ticket, you will be able to watch it on live broadcasts at churches across the UAE, or on a livestream on the official visit website, as well as on the Vatican’s YouTube channel.

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Images: Getty