Logistics

Commercial operations to begin next year, Etihad Rail says

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Trains will travel at speeds of up to 200 km/hr. (Image source: WAM)

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed the progress of the Etihad Rail project and took a landmark passenger train journey between Dubai and Fujairah, marking a key milestone in the UAE’s national railway network.

Set to begin commercial operations in 2026, the passenger train service is part of a wider vision to connect the country through sustainable, efficient, and modern infrastructure. The journey underlines Sheikh Mohammed’s commitment to overseeing strategic development projects and ensuring alignment with the UAE’s long-term national goals.

Describing the railway as one of the country’s most significant infrastructure undertakings, Sheikh Mohammed said the project will have broad economic, social, and developmental benefits. The Etihad Rail team briefed him on the latest milestones and expressed pride in the historic visit.

Enhancing connectivity

“Etihad Rail is a vital economic artery that supports the UAE’s journey to the future,” he said. “It is a key pillar in our vision to build an integrated transport network that strengthens the UAE’s position as a leading logistics hub, while facilitating the movement of people and goods.”

With stations planned in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah during the first phase of operations, the railway is expected to serve as a major catalyst for social mobility, tourism, and inter-emirate connectivity. Trains will travel at speeds of up to 200 km/hr, carrying up to 400 passengers per journey, with projected annual ridership reaching 36.5 million by 2030.

MBRAM

^{His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum took the passenger train journey between Dubai and Fujairah. (Image source: WAM)}

The national network will eventually connect 11 cities and regions, stretching from Al Sila in the west to Fujairah in the east. Once fully operational, Etihad Rail will set a new standard for sustainable transport in the region, supporting the UAE’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, chairman of Etihad Rail, said, “We had the honour of hosting His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum aboard a passenger train journey between the emirates of Dubai and Fujairah. This exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the UAE's visionary leadership to support national projects that propel the progress of our nation. He has been integral to our journey, witnessing the evolution of our network through its various phases: from the announcement of the ‘Projects of the 50’ in 2021 to the inauguration of the complete national railway network and the commencement of freight train operations in 2023. Today, we stand on the cusp of a transformative era in the UAE's transportation landscape and take immense pride in and deeply appreciate the support we have received for this national project. This is a project that drives us towards a brighter future by strengthening connectivity and economic integration across the UAE, thus, serving the nation’s interests and enhancing its competitiveness on the global stage.”

Also read: Etihad Rail launches its ESG strategy

IVECO celebrates 50 years of operations

New Iveco vehicles at the Madrid truck plant (Image source: Iveco)

A familiar brand in the region, IVECO celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025. Shahram Falati, business director for Africa & Middle East, talked to Technical Review Middle East about what to expect next.

It is 50 years since the foundation of truck builder IVECO in 1975, when five leading European industrial vehicle manufacturers came together to lead the way in the transport sector. Today, it is a truly global player, with a manufacturing footprint that includes seven production sites and eight research and development centres spread across Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania and Latin America. Its sales and services footprint spans 3,500 outlets, supporting customers in over 160 countries.

To mark the anniversary, IVECO is hosting a series of events throughout 2025, inviting Technical Review Middle East to its Madrid truck plant to speak with Shahram Falati, business director for Africa and the Middle East.

As well as honouring the past and celebrating the present, he was keen to highlight the opportunities ahead, including the possibility of new assembly plants in Nigeria and South Africa. The company already has a depot in South Africa, and in Ethiopia, but recognises the huge long-term potential the continent presents.

“We are seeing an increased requirement by some countries to introduce local industrial activity,” said Falati. “We have a history of assembly projects in the Middle East and Africa area, so we embrace such requests. We have already inaugurated a new assembly plant in Saudi Arabia and are currently looking at a project in Algeria and South Africa.”

There are plans to further highlight the quality differential of the brand too. “We are also strengthening our sales activities in fields where we see high potential for our vehicles, such as our all-wheel offerings, 4x4 and 6x6 and so on, for off-road missions. On top of this, we have plans on facing the tough competition coming from Chinese brands by campaigns which aim at more client awareness on the differences between the various products and services.”

IVECO is investing heavily in future technology, including zero emission engines and bio-fuels, and is keen to introduce what is already being achieved in Europe into Africa and the Middle East.

“Currently our product offering covers all market needs. In fact, we have Euro3 technology on all our ranges from Light to Medium and Heavy Duty. Some of our markets have already transitioned to Euro5 and we have a full range also with this emission level serving our wide customer base. Our current product launches are focused on technology improvements and upgrading of some models. This year we introduced the new Eurocargo Range with enhanced engine and comfort as well as a full Natural Gas Power lineup. Next year, we will also be seeing enhancements to our Daily range bringing us in line with our European offering.”

Major sectors where IVECO trucks are deployed include construction and mining, while oil and gas is also a growing market.

“We are fortunate that in our territory there is an abundance of opportunity and most of our markets have a growth outlook,” said Falati. “For example, in Morocco, the tourism industry is booming and the country will also host the 2030 World Cup. We see a high level of activity, especially on infrastructure, which is exciting as we have all the vehicles needed for these requirements. There is also activity in the commodity segment and the opening of new mines. To capture this highly-demanding client base, we have set up a special project team. We believe we have the correct off-road product offering, and with training of specialised salesmen, I am very optimistic about bridging the gap between demand and offer in this important segment.”

Cairo gets a new logistics centre

Jumia opens 27,000 sq m smart warehouse to boost Egypt e-commerce logistics

Jumia, Africa’s leading e-commerce platform, has taken a significant step in reinforcing its presence in Egypt with the inauguration of a new integrated warehouse on Suez Road, Cairo

This development marks one of Jumia’s largest investments in the country and demonstrates its continued confidence in Egypt’s strategic role in Africa’s economic and logistical landscape.

Spanning over 27,000 sq m, the new facility is designed to optimise Jumia’s logistics capabilities by improving storage efficiency and speeding up deliveries, particularly to Upper Egypt. The warehouse is equipped with advanced smart systems that enhance order processing and customer satisfaction. As a key component of Jumia’s logistics infrastructure, the centre supports the company’s future expansion and aims to better serve merchants and consumers across the country.

This investment aligns with Jumia’s mission to boost Egypt’s digital economy and enhance its service offerings. It will also provide tailored logistics solutions for local manufacturers and merchants, reinforcing the platform’s support for domestic production.

The warehouse is projected to generate up to 10,000 direct and indirect jobs over the coming years, solidifying Jumia’s contribution to national economic development and youth empowerment.

Prime minister Dr Mostafa Madbouly commended the initiative, remarked, "We welcome this move by Jumia, which reflects the trust that major global companies have in Egypt’s investment climate. We look forward to more partnerships that support the state's goals in digital transformation, the development of logistics infrastructure, and the provision of job opportunities for Egyptian youth."

Abdel Latif Olama, CEO of Jumia Egypt, expressed his appreciation for the government’s support, stated, "We are proud of this achievement, which reflects Jumia’s long-term investment commitment in Egypt. We view Egypt as a strategic hub for our operations in the region. This warehouse represents a qualitative leap in the level of services we provide to our customers and partners, and it supports our vision of becoming an integrated platform that combines technology and logistics across the continent. It will also contribute to our growth in the Egyptian market."

Egypt also plays a critical role in Jumia’s tech ecosystem, hosting one of its largest technology hubs on the continent. This centre is home to a skilled team of engineers and developers who are building digital tools and logistics solutions to support operations across Africa.

During the inauguration, Olama delivered a presentation detailing Jumia’s impact in both Egypt and broader African markets. He also outlined plans for future expansion, reaffirming Egypt’s strategic importance to the company.

The launch of this facility is part of Jumia’s wider expansion strategy aimed at strengthening its infrastructure across Africa. Similar logistics centre s have already been established in Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Morocco, reinforcing the company’s role in advancing digital commerce and economic development across the continent.

Maersk and Saudi Post aim to boost ecommerce logistics

The agreement aims to create a unified service model. (Image source: Maersk)

Maersk Saudi Arabia (Maersk) and the Saudi Post Company (SPL) have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance logistics and supply chain services for ecommerce companies operating in Saudi Arabia and potentially the wider GCC region.

The agreement aims to create a unified service model that meets the growing demand for efficient, end-to-end logistics solutions across regional and global markets.

The partnership will integrate Maersk’s global shipping and logistics capabilities with Saudi Post’s strong national delivery network.

By aligning their strengths, both organisations aim to offer a seamless logistics experience tailored to international eCommerce businesses looking to establish or scale operations within the Kingdom.

Enhancing regional logistics

Saudi Post’s in-country network, developed in line with Vision 2030 objectives, will connect with Maersk’s international infrastructure to deliver greater speed, efficiency, and reliability to customers.

Under the partnership, Saudi Post will manage all domestic services, including express customs clearance and last-mile delivery, while Maersk will handle the origin-side operations, international transport, and bonded fulfilment.

The collaboration will be supported by Maersk’s newly inaugurated Integrated Logistics Park in Jeddah, positioning Saudi Arabia as a vital regional logistics hub.

The MoU outlines joint efforts in digital system integration to ensure smooth data exchange, shared marketing and commercial initiatives to target global ecommerce clients, unified customer service protocols for consistent quality, and operational improvements to optimise capacity and performance.

This strategic alliance is expected to accelerate the development of a robust ecommerce ecosystem and reinforce the Kingdom’s role as a logistics leader in the Middle East.

"We are excited to partner with Saudi Post, who operate an unparalleled distribution network in Saudi Arabia, to create an integrated logistics solution that addresses the growing demand for efficient eCommerce fulfilment in the country," said Ahmed Al Olaby, director, Maersk Saudi Arabia, after signing the MoU. "Our extensive, global ocean network, along with the newly opened Integrated Logistics Park, would combine with Saudi Post's extensive domestic network, positioning us to deliver world-class logistics services that support businesses looking to enter or expand in the Saudi market."

“The strategic collaboration between SPL and Maersk is pivotal in streamlining cross-border e-commerce flows to and from The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC, enhancing connectivity, reliability, and growth opportunities across the region”, said Rouni Saad, international business sales director, SPL Group.

Both companies said that the MoU "directly contributes to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives by enhancing the Kingdom's logistics infrastructure, supporting the growth of the eCommerce sector, and facilitating international trade."

This could attract more international businesses to set up shop in Saudi Arabia, while providing them with reliable and efficient logistics solutions.

Also read: Saudi Global Ports awarded terminal concessions on the Kingdom's eastern coast

Saudi Global Ports awarded terminal concessions on the Kingdom's eastern coast

SGP plans to invest over US$187mn. (Image source: SGP)

Saudi Global Ports Group (SGP), through its subsidiary Modern Port Services Company Limited (SGP Multipurpose Terminals, or SGPMP), has signed four 20-year concession agreements with the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) to operate multipurpose terminals along the Eastern Coast of Saudi Arabia.

The terminals are located at King Abdulaziz Port Dammam (KAPD), Jubail Commercial Port (JCP), King Fahad Industrial Port Jubail (KFIP), and Ras Al-Khair Port (RAK).

The agreements were signed by SGP CEO Rob Harrison and Mawani’s Acting President Mazen bin Ahmed Al-Turki, in the presence of the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, H.E. Saleh Al Jasser, along with Saudi Global Ports chairman Eng. Abdullah Al Zamil and vice chairman Bakr AlMuhanna.

Already a key player in Saudi Arabia’s terminal operations, SGP manages container terminals at KAPD and operates the Riyadh Dry Port Ecosystem, including the Riyadh Dry Port, Riyadh Empty Yard, and Dammam Empty Container Yard.

It is also developing the Dammam Integrated Logistics Zone (DILZ). In 2024, SGP handled more than 4 million TEUs across its network, reinforcing its leadership in the sector.

Expanding logistical operations

Under the new concessions, SGP plans to invest over SAR 700 million (approximately US$187mn) to modernise the terminals and procure advanced equipment.

The group intends to integrate the four new sites with its existing network in Dammam and Riyadh to create efficient, resilient gateways that support Saudi Arabia’s rapid development and major infrastructure projects.

With the support of its technical partner PSA International, SGP will launch tailored training programmes focused on safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability, drawing on PSA’s global experience in managing multipurpose terminals.

Chairman of the Board of Saudi Global Ports Company, Eng. Abdullah Al Zamil said, “SGP, as one of the National Champions for Ports and Logistics in Saudi Arabia, is proud to be entrusted with this opportunity to nurture and grow the four multipurpose terminals along the Eastern Coast of Saudi Arabia. We will strive to provide the same reliability, integration and spirit of innovation at the multipurpose terminals as we have done so for the container terminals at KAPD, the Riyadh Dry Port Ecosystem and DILZ. We are grateful to Mawani for entrusting SGP with these concessions.”

Vice chairman of the Saudi Global Ports Board, Bakr AlMuhanna highlighted, “The agreement between SGP and Mawani is pivotal in driving economic diversification under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. By integrating and modernising key terminals, SGP, together with its technical partner, PSA International, brings their expertise to enhance supply chain efficiency, support critical mega projects, and strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global logistics hub.”

Regional CEO Europe & Mediterranean and Middle East South Asia, PSA International, Vincent Ng said, “PSA is proud to be alongside Saudi Arabia’s growth journey for over 10 years. We are excited to continue to work alongside PIF, Mawani and other stakeholders in the Kingdom, supporting SGP with our global expertise and network as it expands its ecosystem to include capabilities that can bring new and differentiated value to the Kingdom’s ports and logistics sector.”

Also read: UAE's DP World increases investments in sub-Saharan Africa

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