Etihad Rail grows cold-chain freight capacity

Etihad Rail Freight is expanding its cold-chain logistics capabilities through the use of refrigerated rail containers, as it looks to increase the movement of temperature-sensitive cargo across the UAE. The latest operation involved the transport of fresh fish from Al Sila' Port to Abu Dhabi Fish Market in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Fishermen Cooperative Society (ADFCS).

The development highlights the growing role of rail in handling cargo that requires strict temperature control during transit. By using refrigerated containers, rail operators can move perishable products while maintaining consistent temperatures throughout the journey, helping to preserve cargo quality and reduce spoilage risks.

Industry stakeholders say the addition of rail-based cold-chain services could provide businesses with another option for transporting food and other temperature-sensitive goods. The approach also supports efforts to improve supply chain efficiency by combining rail transport with first- and last-mile delivery services.

The shipment was collected at Al Sila' Port and transported to Abu Dhabi through an integrated logistics model designed to handle perishable cargo from origin to destination.

"This partnership reflects Etihad Rail Freight's ongoing commitment to safe, sustainable transport solutions that support the UAE's goals to reduce emissions," said a company spokesman.