-- Rail to effect enhanced supply chain for aggregates supplier --

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 7 September, 2014: 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 Limited (GIBCA Crusher). The agreement willensure the efficient delivery of raw materialsto distribution and export terminals throughout the country.

Established in 1976, GIBCA Crusher is a leading supplier of high quality aggregates thatforma base supply for concrete and asphalt production. Today, the company supplies some of the most distinguished construction projects in the UAE and neighbouring countries, including airports, harbours, roads, bridges and islands. Under the scope of the MoU, Etihad Rail trains will transport aggregates for GIBCA Crusher from its quarry in Ras Al Khaimahto distribution terminals inJebel Ali, ICAD Cities I and IV, Ruwais, Saqr Port, and Fujairah Port.

Commenting on the MoU, Eng. FarisSaif Al Mazrouei, ActingCEO of Etihad Rail, said:  “Agreements with aggregates producers such as GIBCACrusher are essential for the evolution ofthe UAE’s rail transport infrastructure, as it will form a vital part of the construction industry’s supply chain. This will facilitate a more efficientdelivery of aggregates from the Northern Emiratesto construction markets not only within the UAE,but also within region and abroad. The MoU with GIBCA Crusher reflects the support ofbusiness leaders across the UAEfor the remaining stages of the Etihad Rail network, which willin turn contribute to economic integration across the country.”

SheikhSaqer Bin Khalid Al Qassimi, GIBCA Group Corporate Development Director,added: “GIBCA Crushers was established soon after the UAE’s formation. We are proud to say that the company has thrivedin a competitive business environment wherecommitted effortsare made to grow and diversify the UAE economy.The MoU with Etihad Rail will allow GIBCA Crushers to enhance our existing supply chain to meet evolving business needs, ultimately helping us to catermore efficiently to our key markets in the UAE and beyond.”

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. Network routes have beendesigned to accommodate all key customer sectors, with stations positioned to connect production hubs with points of import and export.
Upon completion, the Etihad Rail networkwill span approximately 1,200 kilometres across the Emirates. It will connect urban and peripheral communities, facilitate trade, open up communication channels and foster economic development across all Emirates in the UAE. The network will also form a vital part of the GCC Railway Network, linking the UAE to Saudi Arabia through Ghweifat in the west and Oman through Al Ain in the east.