Transport and Logistics

Taxi fare payment via SMS in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi residents will soon have the option to pay for taxis by sending an SMS from their mobile phones under a new e-payment system, reported Gulf News. The system, called 'Q-cash', will be rolled out by the end of August or September this year. It is hoped that all taxis in the emirate will eventually offer it to their customers.
United Arab Emirates: Wednesday, May 28 - 2008 at 08:04

Dubai to add two new Salik tolls
The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority is to activate two new Salik road toll gates on Shaikh Zayed Road beginning September 9, reported Gulf News. The new locations are at Al Maktoum Bridge and the Second Interchange. Motorists entering or exiting from Al Safa Road from the Second Interchange on Shaikh Zayed Road will also have to pay the toll. However, they will not be charged again if they use the Al Barsha toll gate as they will be charged once for using both the toll gates.
United Arab Emirates: Tuesday, May 27 - 2008 at 15:09

Sharjah plans dedicated bus lanes
The UAE emirate of Sharjah is planning to introduce dedicated lanes for buses to ensure timely movement of newly-launched buses, reported Khaleej Times. The newly-started Route Number 14 bus service has faced some initial challenges, including battling traffic and ensuring timely arrivals and departures. Currently eleven buses are running on the new routes that stretches from the Al Sharq area to Sharjah International Airport.
United Arab Emirates: Tuesday, May 27 - 2008 at 08:11

Airfreight group triples growth
Abu Dhabi-headquartered heavy lifter airfreight group Maximus Air Cargo has announced that its turnover has tripled in the first four months of 2008 to the same period last year. The company further announced that the number of aircraft hours sold had increased 630% from 471 to 3,062.
United Arab Emirates: Monday, May 26 - 2008 at 09:41

Abu Dhabi unveils transport plan
Abu Dhabi's Department of Transport has announced its five-year strategic plan (2008-2012) covering four sectors: aviation, maritime, public transport, and highways. The plan aims to deliver an effective transport system that contributes to the economic growth, quality of life and environmental sustainability of the emirate through the integration of all modes of transport. The plan calls for improved public transport, public/private partnerships to expand and maintain roads, and an 'open skies' policy between Abu Dhabi and international tourist and business destinations.
United Arab Emirates: Sunday, May 25 - 2008 at 16:51

Tenders expected for Kuwait rail network
Tenders for each of the four lines comprising the Kuwait Metropolitan Rapid Transit System, the country's first commercial rail system, are expected to be awarded this year. Officials have said that invitations for bids will start in July. Construction on the $11.3bn project is expected to begin next year and take five years to complete.
Kuwait: Sunday, May 25 - 2008 at 09:54

Basra port increases cargo inflow
Basra Port has welcomed 10 international cargo ships of various tonnages and one tanker in the week beginning 18 May. The number mark a continued upsurge in seaborne cargo deliveries following a ceasefire between the army and militia units.
Iraq: Saturday, May 24 - 2008 at 10:54

New Sharjah bus service set to launch
The launch of public transport buses of the Sharjah Public Transport Corporation is set for tomorrow, a senior SPTC official told Khaleej Times. In preparation for the launch, 68 'bus-stop' signs have already been put up on different routes in the emirate by SPTC. Initially, 25 buses are being launched with facilities for special needs people and separate seating arrangements for women and families. By the year-end, there will be 142 buses plying on 18 routes in the emirate.
United Arab Emirates: Thursday, May 22 - 2008 at 08:18