The UAE has officially entered a new era of integrated mobility as Etihad Rail commenced its inaugural scheduled passenger services, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s transport and logistics landscape.
The first passenger train departed Fujairah launching the country’s long-awaited national passenger rail network. The occasion represents a major step in strengthening multimodal connectivity, supporting economic growth, and advancing the UAE’s vision for sustainable transportation.
Leading this historic journey was Hamad Mansour Albloushi, an Emirati healthcare professional and volunteer from Fujairah, who was selected through Etihad Rail’s nationwide campaign, ‘The Passenger Who Represents Us All’. Recognised for his outstanding community service and humanitarian contributions through organisations including the Emirates Red Crescent and Jusoor Al-Khair, Albloushi became the first passenger to occupy Seat 1, Coach 1 on the inaugural service.
Reflecting on the occasion, Albloushi described the experience as a proud national moment, noting that the journey symbolised the beginning of millions of future rail journeys across the UAE.
The inaugural day witnessed strong public enthusiasm, with passengers praising the service for its comfort, efficiency and seamless travel experience. Families, leisure travellers and business commuters highlighted the convenience of the new rail service, with many describing it as a transformative addition to the country’s public transport network.
Business travellers welcomed the opportunity to maximise productivity during their journeys, while families appreciated the comfortable and stress-free travel environment, particularly for children experiencing the country’s first national passenger rail service.
By the end of the first day of operations, Etihad Rail successfully operated six passenger services between Fujairah and Abu Dhabi, demonstrating the operational readiness of the network. Customer demand was equally encouraging, with more than 10,000 tickets sold since bookings opened, reflecting strong public confidence in the new mode of transport.
Commenting on the successful launch, Adhraa Almansoori, Executive Director of Commercial and Support at Etihad Rail Mobility, said the overwhelming response from passengers reaffirmed the importance of the project in shaping the future of mobility across the UAE.
She noted that the inaugural passengers had become part of a historic milestone that will be remembered as the beginning of the UAE’s national passenger rail journey.
The passenger network will continue to expand progressively during its introductory operational phase, connecting additional cities and communities as Etihad Rail advances the development of the country’s integrated rail infrastructure.
The commencement of passenger operations complements Etihad Rail’s growing freight network, further strengthening the UAE’s position as a regional logistics and transportation hub while supporting national objectives for sustainability, reduced road congestion, and enhanced multimodal connectivity.
With its successful launch, Etihad Rail has laid the foundation for a modern, efficient and environmentally sustainable transport ecosystem, offering residents, businesses and visitors a faster and more connected way to travel across the Emirates.
