Inspiring Emirati passenger chosen as first rider on Etihad Rail journey
Determination triumphs as passenger with visual impairment earns historic seat through public initiative
Dubai: The selection of Hamad Mansour Al Balushi, a person of determination, to occupy seat number (1) in cabin number (1), and to hold ticket number (1) on board the first Etihad Rail trip from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi, was not a coincidence. It came after his sister, Anfal Al Balushi, nominated him as part of an initiative launched by the company through social media platforms to choose “the passenger who represents us all.”
Anfal Al Balushi said she took the initiative to register her brother as soon as she saw an advertisement published by Etihad Rail on social media platforms, as she sees him as an inspiring individual who has overcome his visual impairment and continued his life journey with determination and perseverance despite the challenges he faced.
She added that her brother did not allow his visual disability to stand in the way of his ambitions. Instead, he continued his studies and worked hard to build his future until he entered the labour market. He currently works at Sheikh Khalifa Hospital in Fujairah. She stressed that he is a model of resilience and perseverance and deserves this national honour.
Hamad Al Balushi expressed his immense happiness at being chosen as the first passenger on board “Etihad Trains” on its inaugural journey, noting that this moment represents a source of great pride and honour for him.
He said that holding ticket number (1) and sitting in seat number (1) in cabin number (1) during the inaugural journey from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi will remain a lasting memory in his life. He added that his participation in this national event reflects the UAE’s commitment to empowering people of determination and involving them in major national achievements.