Etihad Rail signs new customers ahead of official launch

Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GIBCA Crushing and Quarry Operations Limited (GIBCA Crusher), the operator announced in a media statement today.

The agreement will ensure the efficient delivery of raw materials to distribution and export terminals throughout the country, it said.

Upon completion, the Etihad Rail network will span approximately 1,200 kilometres across the country. It will connect urban and peripheral communities, facilitate trade, open up communication channels and foster economic development across all Emirates in the UAE.

The network will also form a vital part of the GCC Railway Network, linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia through Ghweifat in the west and Oman through Al Ain in the east.

Rails are currently undergoing test rounds, and freight trains of Etihad Rail will commence their official services very soon.

“Agreements with aggregates producers such as GIBCA Crusher are essential for the evolution of the UAE’s rail transport infrastructure, as it will form a vital part of the construction industry’s supply chain,” said Faris Saif Al Mazrouei, Acting CEO of Etihad Rail.

“This will facilitate a more efficient delivery of aggregates from the Northern Emirates to construction markets not only within the UAE, but also within region and abroad. The MoU with GIBCA Crusher reflects the support of business leaders across the UAE for the remaining stages of the Etihad Rail network, which will in turn contribute to economic integration across the country,” he added.

Established in 1976, GIBCA Crusher supplies aggregates that form a base supply for concrete and asphalt production. The company supplies some of the more prominent construction projects in the UAE and neighbouring countries, including airports, harbours, roads, bridges and islands.

Under the scope of the MoU, Etihad Rail trains will transport aggregates for GIBCA Crusher from its quarry in Ras Al Khaimah to distribution terminals in Jebel Ali, ICAD Cities I and IV, Ruwais, Saqr Port, and Fujairah Port.

“GIBCA Crushers was established soon after the UAE’s formation. The MoU with Etihad Rail will allow GIBCA Crushers to enhance our existing supply chain to meet evolving business needs, ultimately helping us to cater more efficiently to our key markets in the UAE and beyond,” added Sheikh Saqer Bin Khalid Al Qassimi, GIBCA Group Corporate Development Director.

In addition to aggregates, the Etihad Rail network will be used to transport bulk and non-bulk materials, offering tailor-made solutions to differing customer needs. Network routes have been designed to accommodate all key customer sectors, with stations positioned to connect production hubs with points of import and export.

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