Abu Dhabi Ports launches multimodal land logistics network to boost industrial shipping
Abu Dhabi Ports launches a multimodal land logistics network linking Khalifa Port, Fujairah and AIKAD with rail-connected dry ports to boost industrial shipping.
Abu Dhabi Ports announces integrated land logistics network
Abu Dhabi Ports has announced the establishment of an integrated, multimodal land logistics network designed to strengthen industrial shipping across the United Arab Emirates. The new network will link Khalifa Port and ports in Fujairah to rail-connected dry ports, AIKAD industrial city and a nationwide set of cargo warehouses to create a single logistics platform. Abu Dhabi Ports said the system aims to improve the reliability and speed of industrial supply chains, facilitating movement of raw materials, finished goods and strategic cargo across the country. The initiative is presented as a strategic step to position Abu Dhabi’s maritime gateways as central nodes for domestic and regional industrial trade.
Khalifa Port and Fujairah positioned as industrial gateways
The plan formalises Khalifa Port and Fujairah’s role as primary gateways for industrial imports and exports serving UAE manufacturers and regional trade corridors. By integrating these seaports with inland dry ports and warehousing, Abu Dhabi Ports intends to create end-to-end logistics routes that shorten transit times and reduce handling. The move is expected to increase throughput capacity at the seaports while offering manufacturers more predictable inbound supplies and outbound distribution options. Officials described the network as a way to balance seaport capacity with inland distribution infrastructure to meet growing industrial demand.
Partnerships signed with four major industrial firms
To support the network’s commercial and operational reach, Abu Dhabi Ports signed memoranda of understanding with four leading industrial companies in the UAE. The agreements involve Emirates Global Aluminium, Emsteel Group, Al Ghurair Iron & Steel and Tenaris, who will serve as principal industrial shippers within the network. These partnerships are intended to anchor regular cargo flows and establish reliable freight corridors between production sites, AIKAD and the rail-linked dry ports. Abu Dhabi Ports said the collaboration with large domestic manufacturers will help secure consistent volumes and accelerate the industrialisation objectives of the country.
Rail-connected dry ports and AIKAD integration
A key feature of the network is its connection to the national railway, linking seaports to dry ports and to AIKAD, the Abu Dhabi industrial city affiliated with KIZAD. Rail connectivity will enable bulk movement of inputs such as metals and other industrial commodities directly from seaports to inland distribution hubs and manufacturing zones. Dry ports and strategically located warehouses will provide cross-docking, storage and value-added handling that reduce road congestion and lower logistics costs for manufacturers. Abu Dhabi Ports emphasised that the rail-enabled design provides more resilient supply chains by offering alternative modal options during peak demand or disruptions.
Supply chain improvements and industrial benefits
Abu Dhabi Ports says the network will streamline the flow of raw materials, components and finished products, improving lead times and inventory predictability for local manufacturers. The platform is intended to support industrial growth by providing manufacturers with easier access to imported inputs and faster routes to export markets. For strategic commodities and time-sensitive cargoes, the network promises enhanced handling and reduced touchpoints, which can lower damage and loss risks. Stakeholders expect the arrangement to contribute to cost efficiencies that strengthen the competitiveness of UAE-made goods in regional and global markets.
Leadership and strategic outlook from Abu Dhabi Ports
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, managing director and group CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, said the group aims to fortify industrial logistics services in the UAE through the new multimodal land network. He framed the initiative as both an infrastructure and partnership-driven effort that builds on the expertise of national industrial leaders. Abu Dhabi Ports described the network as part of a broader push to support national supply chains, diversify logistics offerings and enhance the emirate’s role in regional trade flows. The organisation indicated further operational details and timelines will be rolled out as facilities and rail links are progressively integrated.
The initiative represents a coordinated attempt to align seaport capacity, rail access and inland logistics services around industry-led demand, and it signals a step change in how industrial cargo will be moved across the UAE.
