UAE rail network signs MoU with freight firm

Abu Dhabi, Oct 20 (IANS/WAM) Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) national railway network, Sunday announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with JBC Express Freight, a freight-forwarding, warehousing and value-added logistics services company.

The MoU paves the way for a long-term partnership that facilitates the delivery of containers and other cargo throughout the UAE and across the border into other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, via Etihad Rail's connection to the wider GCC railway network.

The integration of JBC's existing transport options with rail will enhance the company's supply chain capabilities, allowing it to better meet the requirements of regional and global customers.

"Etihad Rail is an integral part of UAE. Vision 2021 - strengthening the U.A.E.'s position as a logistics hub in the region and beyond - while JBC has also established itself as a contributor to the growing regional logistics sector," Nasser Al Mansoori, chief executive officer of Etihad Rail, said.

"As such, the MoU with JBC is in line with Etihad Rail's strategy to build relationships with key industry players as part of its commitment towards the economic growth and development of the UAE. This will not only allow JBC to experience the benefits of a modern, efficient and integrated mode of transport, but also facilitate their expansion plans in the GCC," he added.

Upon completion, the Etihad Rail network, which will cater for both freight and passenger traffic, will span approximately 1,200 km across the UAE.

It will connect urban and peripheral communities, facilitate trade, open up communication channels and foster economic development across the UAE.

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 Oman via Al Ain in the east.

--IANS/WAM

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