Etihad Rail and AD Ports Group Launch Direct Cargo Rail Service from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi

This new rail service enhances the UAE's logistics infrastructure, promoting economic resilience and sustainability.

• Etihad Rail Freight and AD Ports Group launched a direct cargo rail service from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi’s Industrial City (ICAD) on September 20, 2026.
• The service allows containers arriving at Fujairah to be transported directly by rail to ICAD for customs clearance and inspection.
• This initiative aims to reduce road transport emissions and handling times while accelerating supply chains across Abu Dhabi.

• The UAE National Rail Network has been progressively expanding to connect key ports and industrial hubs, with freight operations starting in 2023.
• The Fujairah-ICAD service integrates an inland customs-enabled gateway, streamlining logistics for importers and exporters.
• The initiative aligns with national goals to shift cargo transport from roads to rail, enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

On September 20, 2026, the launch of the direct cargo rail service from Fujairah Terminals to Abu Dhabi’s Industrial City (ICAD) marked a significant milestone in the UAE's logistics landscape. This initiative, developed by Etihad Rail Freight in collaboration with AD Ports Group, is designed to facilitate the seamless movement of goods across the emirates. By enabling containers arriving at Fujairah to be transported directly by rail to ICAD, the service not only simplifies customs clearance but also enhances the overall efficiency of supply chains.

The rail service operates under the UN/LOCODE “AECAD,” allowing for direct booking and clearance at the destination. This integration is crucial for logistics operators, manufacturers, and exporters, as it reduces the reliance on road transport, which is often subject to congestion and delays. Each freight train can carry the equivalent of up to 300 heavy trucks, showcasing the efficiency of rail transport over traditional road methods. This capacity shift is expected to alleviate some of the long-haul trucking pressures on inter-emirate routes, particularly those connecting to Dubai logistics corridors.

The broader implications of this service extend beyond mere transportation. It aligns with the UAE's sustainability targets by reducing emissions associated with road transport. The service is anticipated to lower operational costs for businesses, making rail a more attractive option for logistics and manufacturing sectors. As the UAE continues to prioritize integrated trade infrastructure, this rail service is a step towards enhancing economic resilience and fostering a more sustainable logistics ecosystem.

Executives from both Etihad Rail Freight and AD Ports Group have emphasized the enhanced efficiency and reduced transit times that this service will bring. The scheduled connections and on-site customs processes are expected to streamline operations significantly, providing a competitive edge for businesses that utilize this new route. As the UAE aims to position itself as a logistics hub in the region, the Fujairah-ICAD rail service is a critical component of this strategy.

• Logistics operators: Benefit from reduced transit times and lower operational costs.
• Manufacturers: Gain streamlined access to customs clearance, enhancing production efficiency.
• Importers and exporters: Experience improved supply chain reliability and reduced handling times.
• Environmental advocates: See a potential decrease in emissions from reduced road transport.

• Increased rail freight capacity: Monitor how quickly the rail service scales and its impact on logistics costs.
• Shifts in transportation modal share: Watch for changes in the balance between road and rail transport in the UAE.
• Sustainability metrics: Keep an eye on emissions reductions attributed to the new rail service.