The UAE recently set out plans to strengthen the country’s position as a leading hub for global trade and raise the value of its logistics sector to AED 200bn (US$ 54.45bn) annually within the next seven years.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the launch of the Emirates Council for Logistics Integration to oversee the vision for the future. He said the new body would be responsible for driving up UAE trade around the world by bolstering integration in roads, rail, ports and customs.
Sheikh Mohammed outlined the strategy while presiding over the latest meeting of the UAE Cabinet at Qasr Al Watan in Abu Dhabi on 3 February 2025.
Global trade hub
“During the meeting, we approved the establishment of the UAE Logistics Integration Council, aimed at aligning efforts and ensuring seamless co-ordination to strengthen the UAE’s position as a global trade hub,” Sheikh Mohammed said, in remarks shared by the UAE Government Media Office.
“The council will bring together all key federal and local entities, including ports, roads, transport, customs, railways and border crossings, ensuring efficiency and synergy in the sector. With the logistics industry valued at AED 129bn in 2023, our goal is to expand it beyond AED 200bn over the next seven years, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a central hub for global trade and commerce,” the statement continued.
Etihad Rail to spur economic growth
Sheikh Mohammed highlighted the crucial role to be played in the nation’s development by Etihad Rail’s high-speed train project, announced last month.
The 30-minute passenger rail service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai will carry trains travelling at up to 350kph on a route that will pass through ’key destinations and tourist attractions’.
The new high-speed electrified line will feature six stations at Reem Island, Yas Island, Sadiya Island, Zayed Airport, close to Al Maktoum Airport in Dubai and Jaddaf, near Dubai Creek, Etihad Rail said.
“Its contribution to GDP will exceed AED 145bn over the next five decades. More than just a railway, Etihad High-Speed Train represents a new national ambition, a strategic federal link and a step towards building an infrastructure that remains among the best and most advanced globally,” the statement concluded.
