Etihad Rail Links Fujairah Port With Abu Dhabi Industrial Hub

UAE, September 2026 — The UAE is expanding the role of rail within its national freight and logistics network by connecting maritime gateways directly with major industrial centres. The new service links Fujairah Terminals on the UAE’s east coast with the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD), creating a rail-based connection between the port and Abu Dhabi’s industrial heartland.

Launched by Etihad Rail Freight in partnership with AD Ports Group, the service combines a dedicated rail freight operation with a customs-enabled inland cargo gateway at ICAD. Cargo arriving through Fujairah can be transported directly by rail to ICAD, where customers can access customs clearance, inspection and cargo-release services closer to their final operations.

The service operates three times a week and is intended to provide more predictable cargo movements while reducing reliance on long-distance road transport. According to the partners, the model can help reduce road congestion, support higher-volume freight movements and lower emissions compared with conventional long-haul trucking.

The connection also illustrates the growing integration of rail infrastructure with ports and inland logistics facilities. Rather than functioning solely as a transport link, the ICAD gateway brings customs and cargo-handling functions closer to industrial customers, potentially reducing the time between vessel arrival and final delivery.

The development forms part of the UAE’s wider effort to establish freight rail as an important component of national supply chains. Etihad Rail’s freight operations have been active since 2023, connecting ports, industrial zones and logistics hubs, with the network designed to support large-volume domestic and international cargo movements.

Source: WorldCargo News