Etihad Rail, AD Ports launch direct rail freight link to ICAD

Abu Dhabi: Etihad Rail Freight and AD Ports Group have launched a new direct rail freight service connecting Fujairah ports with Abu Dhabi Industrial City (ICAD), in a move aimed at improving logistics efficiency and bringing customs services closer to customers. The new service combines rail freight transport from Fujairah ports to ICAD with an inland freight gateway equipped with customs clearance, inspection and cargo release services. The initiative extends the reach of Fujairah port services beyond the port area by enabling goods arriving at Fujairah to be transported directly via the UAE's national railway network to ICAD, where customers can complete customs procedures closer to their business locations in Abu Dhabi. Supporting the launch, the United Nations (UN/LOCODE) has assigned ICAD the location code AECAD, allowing shipping lines, freight forwarders and cargo owners to book shipments directly to ICAD as a final destination and customs clearance point for the first time. Integrated with customs and inspection infrastructure, the service enables containers arriving at Fujairah ports to be moved directly to ICAD by rail, reducing handling activities, simplifying customs processes and accelerating the movement of goods across Abu Dhabi. The service is designed for importers, exporters, manufacturers, distributors and logistics providers operating in Abu Dhabi, allowing them to receive cargo closer to warehouses, production facilities and end markets. The companies said this will reduce reliance on road transport, shorten delivery distances and improve supply-chain efficiency. The new rail link will operate on regular schedules and is expected to help reduce road congestion, improve the movement of large cargo volumes and lower carbon emissions compared with long-distance road transport. Omar Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of Etihad Rail Freight, said the launch marks an important step in enhancing logistics integration and maximising the potential of the UAE's national railway network. He said the service provides customers with an integrated solution linking ports directly to business destinations through rail transport, cargo handling and customs clearance services, helping reduce the time between vessel arrival and final delivery. Saif Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer of Ports at AD Ports Group, said the service brings together Fujairah ports, the national railway network and ICAD into a more connected logistics system. He said the partnership extends the reach of AD Ports Group's infrastructure beyond port terminals and brings key logistics services closer to customers, while improving market access and supply-chain management. The companies said the partnership supports their commitment to strengthening the UAE's logistics and trade infrastructure through improved connectivity, innovation and customer-focused supply-chain solutions. As part of AD Ports Group, Fujairah Terminals plays a key role in providing integrated supply-chain services connecting ports, industrial and free zones, logistics platforms and digital services. The companies said the new service will further strengthen the UAE's position as a regional and global logistics hub and support trade links with GCC countries, India, the Red Sea region and East Africa.