Etihad Rail has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with trucking and transportation services provider Al Safa Transport for cargo movement using an integrated railway and truck transport model.
The UAE’s railways operator said that the agreement, which was signed by its CEO Faris Saif Al Mazrouei and Al Safa Transport MD Nabeel Chaudhry, will pave the way for efficient movement of cargo using the UAE’s railway network and is an example of the opportunity that rail presents for businesses seeking environmentally sustainable and cost effective methods to meet their transportation requirements.
“We are delighted to sign this MoU with Al Safa Transport, a reputable trucking services company with a track record for safe and efficient movement of freight across the UAE,” said Al Mazrouei.
“More importantly, this agreement highlights the fact that rail and trucking services are not necessarily competing services. Rather, they should be viewed as complementary services that offer the end-users choice depending on their business needs.”
Dubai-headquartered Al Safa Transport is a part of the Al Safa Group. It was formed in 1976 and its network is spread throughout the UAE and the wider region.
Nabeel Chaudhry, MD of Al Safa Transport, said: “We are very pleased being the first local trucking company in the UAE to be signing this MoU with Etihad Rail, and we understand there is a great potential in the future for partnering trucking services along with the cargo rail network services throughout the GCC, helping in environmental savings and cost savings for cargo owners.”