ABU DHABI- Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with NewPort Tank Containers, a leading global tank container operator with substantial operations in all major trade lanes.
The agreement, signed by Eng. Faris Saif Al Mazrouei, Acting CEO of Etihad Rail, and Pim van den Doel, General Manager Middle East & India of NewPort Tank Containers, will allow NewPort to adopt rail as a transport solution for its shipping and logistics services in the region. The MoU represents yet another successful partnership with an organisation that recognises rail as the preferred means of cargo transport in the MENA region.
“Etihad Rail is committed to supporting business and economic growth in the region,” commented Eng. Faris Saif Al Mazrouei. “The national railway network will enhance our country’s reputation as a logistics hub. We look forward to facilitating the safe, efficient and cost-effective delivery of NewPort’s shipping services in the UAE and adjoining regions.”
NewPort is a global, bulk liquid, logistics platform which specialises in tank container transport.
“NewPort is expanding its global operations,” said Pim van den Doel. “We have established a strong presence in the Middle East and appreciate the importance of intermodal transport for further growth in the region.”
“Rail transport is ideal for handling materials in bulk quantities, and allows us to enhance our service efficiency in the region. The Etihad Rail network will play an important role in helping us provide our customers with a complete package of superior logistics and cost efficient services,” added Pim van den Doel.
Upon completion, the Etihad Rail will cater to both freight and passengers, spanning approximately 1,200 kilometres across the UAE. The rail network will connect urban and peripheral communities, facilitate trade, open up communication channels and foster economic development across all seven emirates. The network will also form a vital part of the GCC railway network, linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia via Ghweifat in the west and to Oman via Al Ain in the east.