Agility, a leading global logistics provider, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE's national railway network, on an agreement that will enable Agility to use Etihad Rail's services for distribution in the UAE and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The agreement is the latest in a series of MOUs completed by Etihad Rail in recent months, highlighting the organisation's commitment to working with key GCC stakeholders.

The MOU was signed by Acting CEO of Etihad Rail, Eng. Faris Saif Al Mazrouei, and Bassel El Dabbagh, CEO of Agility Abu Dhabi. Under the MOU, Etihad Rail and Agility will establish long-term, mutually beneficial cooperation with the aim of developing and enhancing the logistics and transportation network between the UAE and GCC.

Faris Saif Al Mazrouei said, The enhanced connectivity that Etihad Rail will deliver will effectively bring businesses closer together, facilitating more efficient trade and extending geographic markets. Our MOU with Agility is another important step forward for the UAE's rail project. Agility is recognised as a logistics leader and we are proud to work with such a major organisation to further develop the logistics industry.

Bassel El Dabbagh said, The signing of this MOU has established a solid foundation to build a more efficient and extensive supply chain in the UAE and across the GCC. We are confident our cooperation with Etihad Rail will enhance our service to customers by providing them with an additional mode of transport that is faster, safer, more reliable and sustainable, and enable them to reach remote areas in the western region.

The AED 40 billion, 1,200 km Etihad Rail network will connect industrial areas as well as urban and peripheral communities throughout the country, facilitating trade and fostering economic growth.

The network will form a vital part of the planned GCC railway network " linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia via Ghweifat in the west and Oman via Al Ain in the east. Etihad Rail works closely with GCC railways through the GCC Secretariat General with shared goals, aspirations, and business objectives to deliver the regional railway professionally, efficiently, and on schedule.

Construction of the project is under way with services between Habshan and Ruwais already operational on a trial basis since September 2013, with Shah-Habshan services expected to follow before the end of 2014.