United Global Ro-Ro Launches Maiden LNG-Powered Voyage at Khalifa Port, Advancing Sustainable Maritime Logistics
In a landmark move for the future of green shipping, United Global Ro-Ro—the joint venture between Noatum Maritime (a member of AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster) and Erkport—celebrated the maiden voyage of its first LNG-powered Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC) at Autoterminal Khalifa Port.
The arrival of the UGR Al Samha, a state-of-the-art deep-sea vessel, marks the beginning of a bold new chapter in sustainable Ro-Ro logistics. With a cargo capacity exceeding 7,000 car equivalent units (CEU) distributed across 12 decks, the vessel is designed to accommodate high and heavy cargo needs while aligning with the UAE’s national decarbonization goals.
A Leap Toward Greener Shipping
The UGR Al Samha features LNG propulsion technology and advanced design elements that significantly reduce emissions and environmental impact. Operating from Khalifa Port as its central hub, the vessel strengthens feeder links and enhances the efficiency of vehicle and heavy cargo transportation across vital global routes spanning the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean.
Captain Ammar Al Shaiba, CEO of AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster, said:
“The maiden call of UGR Al Samha at Khalifa Port is not just a milestone for United Global Ro-Ro but a significant step forward in our strategy of investing in vessels and technologies that reduce our impact on the environment. This vessel strengthens our ability to offer reliable and eco-conscious Ro-Ro logistics globally.”
Tolga Emrah Gezgin, CEO of United Global Ro-Ro (UGR), added:
“We are pleased to complete our first voyage at Khalifa Port. Through our eco-friendly logistics model, we aim to minimise environmental impact and operational costs, supporting carbon emission reductions across the Ro-Ro sector. This is just the beginning of a new era in maritime transportation.”
Expanding Sustainable Trade Routes
The UGR Al Samha is set to operate on regular routes connecting major automotive and industrial hubs, addressing the growing global demand for cleaner, more efficient transport of finished vehicles and heavy machinery. This deployment is part of Noatum Maritime’s broader strategy to expand its Ro-Ro service network while transitioning to alternative, low-emission fuels.
Celebrating Innovation at Khalifa Port
The maiden voyage celebration at Khalifa Port was attended by key stakeholders, industry leaders, and potential partners, offering a close look at the vessel’s cutting-edge features and reinforcing its role as a cornerstone in the evolution of green shipping logistics.
