Etihad Rail's First Passenger Calls Historic Journey a Lifetime Honour

An Emirati healthcare professional, Hamad Mansour Albloushi, made history on Tuesday by becoming the first official passenger to travel on Etihad Rail's newly launched passenger service. Sitting in Seat 1, Coach 1, he travelled from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, marking the beginning of the UAE's long-awaited national passenger railway network.

Albloushi described the experience as a once-in-a-lifetime honour, saying it was a moment he would always remember. "When I sat down in Seat 1, Coach 1, it struck me that this wasn't just my journey, it was the beginning of millions of journeys that will follow. It's a privilege I'll never forget."

Why was Hamad Mansour Albloushi chosen as the first passenger?

Etihad Rail selected Albloushi after inviting nominations from the public through a nationwide campaign aimed at finding "the passenger who represents us all."

The Fujairah resident was recognised for his dedication to serving the community and supporting humanitarian causes. He has volunteered with organisations including the Emirates Red Crescent and Jusoor Al Khair, contributing his time to help people in need.

Speaking about the honour, Albloushi said: "I've been nominated because of my contribution to my community, but today I feel like I'm representing everyone who believes in the future of this country. Being the first passenger is an honour beyond words."

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Etihad Rail's inaugural journey reaches Abu Dhabi ahead of schedule

Albloushi was among 400 passengers who travelled on the inaugural service. The train departed from Al Hilal City at 5:34am and reached Abu Dhabi at around 7:00am, arriving 20 minutes ahead of schedule.

The launch has attracted significant public interest, with more than 10,000 tickets sold since bookings opened.

Passengers praise comfort and smooth travel experience

Many travellers described the inaugural journey as comfortable, efficient and enjoyable.

Passenger Krishnie Manipalan, who travelled with friends, said the entire travel experience was simple from start to finish. "The whole journey felt easy. From boarding to arriving, everything was designed around the passenger."

She added that the train was not only fast but also provided a calm and relaxing atmosphere. "The biggest surprise wasn't just how fast it felt, it was also how calm it felt."

Families celebrate being part of UAE rail history

Another passenger, Rizwana Shoukat Safdari, said travelling on the first day of passenger operations created a memorable family experience.

She said her children had eagerly waited for the launch and would always remember being among the first passengers on the UAE's national railway. "Our children were counting down the days until today. They'll grow up saying they travelled on the very first day of passenger rail in the UAE, and that's something really special."

Safdari also highlighted how convenient the journey was for families. "Usually travelling with children can be stressful. Today it felt easy. They loved looking out of the windows, and we could simply enjoy the journey together."

Etihad Rail says passengers are now part of UAE history

Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial and Support at Etihad Rail Mobility, said the hundreds of passengers travelling on the first six passenger services had become part of a historic national milestone.

According to Almansoori, the excitement seen at railway stations reflected the significance of the launch, with families gathering, passengers taking photographs and celebrating the beginning of passenger rail services in the UAE. "Today has always been about our passengers. Watching families gather on station platforms, seeing customers take photographs before boarding and hearing the excitement as the first train departed has reminded all of us why this project matters."

She added: "Every person who travelled with us today has become part of the story of the UAE's first national passenger rail service. Years from now, they'll be able to say they were there at the very beginning, and we're incredibly proud to have shared that moment with them."