ABU DHABI — Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE's national railway network, has signed an agreement with Transportr, a leading company in digital freight services.

The cooperation comes as part of Etihad Rail’s long-term digital innovation strategy in advancing cutting-edge technology for the rail sector, alongside the company’s commitment to the UAE’s digitalization agenda.

Through the cooperation, Etihad Rail and Transportr will work together to enable the streamlining of service provision in the logistics sector through digital solutions such as booking, tracking, and multi-modal connectivity, that will provide a complete digital rail freight solution that will complement Etihad Rail’s range of new and sophisticated technologies that are convenient and efficient.

Ahmed Al Hashemi, executive director - commercial at Etihad Rail, said: “Etihad Rail is at the forefront of the industry in developing innovative solutions for its customers.

“Through integrating state-of-the-art technology into our network, we are creating a rail service that is new, modern, and cost effective, bringing significant benefits to the wider local and regional logistics sector.”

He added: “Our collaboration with Transportr falls in line with our wider aim of providing customers with smart technologies that enable a resilient and cost-effective supply chain.

“Through implementing international best practice in designing new digital solutions, we are reducing transport and storage costs, improving supply chain resilience, and providing future customers with seamless freight transport. Transportr provides a range of sophisticated solutions for the whole logistics sector, and we look forward to see their promising future growth.”

Commenting on the agreement, Alaa Hawari, general manager of Transportr, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Etihad Rail. The company’s investment in its digital solutions is demonstrative of its wider holistic approach to implementing international best practice across the construction of the UAE’s National Rail Network.

“This infrastructure will connect key centers of industry with urban and rural communities, sustaining trade, boosting national development, and delivering faster, safer, and more reliable services for businesses.

“Transportr, as a ‘door-to-door’ integrated solution provider, is committed to the digital transformation of the rail system to achieve the full digitalization of the entire supply chain, backed by our experienced professionals, strong infrastructure, digital competence and regional expansion,” he concluded.

Etihad Rail continues to drive change and enhance the wider logistics and transport sector in the UAE and the GCC. The company integrates novel technological breakthroughs with pre-existing logistical systems, ensuring that customers can access the full benefits of the UAE’s status as a global logistics hub.

Through providing the potential to connect the Emirates, from Al Ghuweifait on the borders with Saudi Arabia through to eastern ports on the Indian Ocean, Etihad Rail delivers the smooth and seamless transport of cargo goods. — SG