Etihad Rail, the developer and operator of the UAE’s national railway network, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Gibca Crushing and Quarry Operations (Gibca Crusher).

The agreement will ensure the efficient delivery of raw materials to distribution and export terminals throughout the country.

Established in 1976, Gibca Crusher is a leading supplier of aggregates that form a base supply for concrete and asphalt production. Today, the company supplies to some of the leading construction projects in the UAE and neighbouring countries, including airports, harbours, roads, bridges and islands.

As per the deal, Etihad Rail trains will transport aggregates for Gibca Crusher from its quarry in Ras Al Khaimah to distribution terminals in Jebel Ali, Dubai; ICAD Cities I and IV and Ruwais in Abu Dhabi; Saqr Port in Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah Port.

Faris Saif Al Mazrouei, the acting CEO of Etihad Rail, said: "Agreements with aggregates producers such as Gibca Crusher are essential for the evolution of the UAE’s rail transport infrastructure, as it will form a vital part of the construction industry’s supply chain."

"This will facilitate a more efficient delivery of aggregates from the Northern Emirates to construction markets not only within the UAE, but also within region and abroad," he stated.

Al Mazrouei said the agreement reflects the support of business leaders across the UAE for the remaining stages of the Etihad Rail network, which will in turn contribute to economic integration across the country.

Sheikh Saqer bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Gibca Group corporate development director, said: "Gibca Crushers was established soon after the UAE’s formation. We are proud to say that the company has thrived in a competitive business environment where committed efforts are made to grow and diversify the UAE economy."

"The MoU with Etihad Rail will allow Gibca Crusher to enhance the existing supply chain to meet evolving business needs, ultimately helping us to cater more efficiently to our key markets in the UAE and beyond," noted Sheikh Saqer.

In addition to aggregates, the Etihad Rail network will be used to transport bulk and non-bulk materials, offering tailor-made solutions to differing customer needs, stated the official.

Network routes have been designed to accommodate all key customer sectors, with stations positioned to connect production hubs with points of import and export, he added.-TradeArabia News Service