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UAE mining firm signs Etihad Rail network deal

The MoU was signed by Faris Saif Al Mazrouei (right), acting CEO of Etihad Rail and Naser Bustami, general manager of Stevin Rock. (Image source: Etihad Rail)

Mining company Stevin Rock has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Etihad Rail to strengthen its distribution network in the UAE

According to the MoU, Stevin Rock would be using the 1,200 km UAE rail network to distribute bulk commodities from its three quarries located in Kadra, Al Ghail and Khor Khuwair to Etihad Rail distribution terminals across the country.

Naser Bustami, general manager of Stevin Rock, said, ?We are pleased to establish this strategic collaboration with Etihad Rail, which will provide us with a more cost-effective and reliable transport solution, especially for long-distance transit. As we expand operations in the UAE and across the region, the rail network will allow us to move greater quantities of bulk commodity at a time and improve overall transit times.?

Etihad Rail would also operate three trains to carry 11.9mn tonnes of commodities per year from the Al Ghail quarry to locations within the UAE as well as to export terminals, the MoU stated.

Faris Saif Al Mazrouei, acting CEO of Etihad Rail, added, ?It is promising to see yet another company recognise rail as the preferred transport solution for its logistics network in the region. Working with one of the world?s leading mining companies will significantly increase the bulk commodity volume Etihad Rail would transport and consequently, improve the operational efficiency of overall business.?

The mining company noted that by 2020, the rail network would enable Stevin Rock to transport an annual volume of more than 22mn tonnes of mined products and materials to real estate developers and construction companies in the UAE and GCC.