A Milestone for Sustainable Maritime Transport and Global Trade Connectivity
United Global Ro-Ro, a joint venture between Noatum Maritime (a business under AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping cluster) and Erkport, has celebrated the inaugural call of its environmentally friendly PCTC (Pure Car and Truck Carrier) vessel, UGR Al Samha, at Autoterminal Khalifa Port.
This marks the joint venture’s first official operation and represents a major step forward in delivering sustainable, efficient, and high-capacity Ro-Ro logistics solutions along vital global trade routes. Designed to transport over 7,000 Car Equivalent Units (CEUs) across 12 decks, the state-of-the-art vessel is strategically positioned to serve key markets across the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean.
Powered by LNG and built with the latest vessel design technologies, UGR Al Samha showcases a low-emission maritime solution that aligns with the UAE’s decarbonization goals and the partners’ commitment to clean shipping. This integration of eco-conscious fuel, advanced shipbuilding, and port synergies delivers a competitive and sustainable alternative for global Ro-Ro logistics.
Captain Ammar Al Shaiba, CEO of the Maritime & Shipping Cluster, AD Ports Group, stated:
“The inaugural arrival of UGR Al Samha at Khalifa Port is a strategic milestone, not only for United Global Ro-Ro but also for our broader commitment to reduce environmental impact through advanced vessels and innovative maritime solutions. With this ship now in active service, we are expanding our ability to offer sustainable, reliable, and competitive Ro-Ro logistics to global partners.”
Tolga Emrah Gezgin, CEO of United Global Ro-Ro (UGR), added:
“We are proud to have successfully completed the maiden call at Khalifa Port—marking the first major step in our partnership with Noatum Maritime focused on Ro-Ro and finished vehicle logistics. Our environmentally friendly operational model allows us to reduce both operational costs and environmental impact, while actively lowering our carbon emissions in Ro-Ro transportation. This journey marks the beginning of a new era, and we’re excited to keep advancing with strong steps in maritime logistics.”
Following this successful inaugural call, UGR Al Samha will continue to operate on scheduled routes that connect key automotive and industrial hubs. The vessel also plays a key role in Noatum Maritime’s strategy to expand its Ro-Ro service network and transition to a fleet powered by alternative fuels.
The celebration at Khalifa Port was attended by industry stakeholders, business partners, and potential clients, who toured the vessel to experience its cutting-edge features and learn more about its strategic role in global Ro-Ro trade.
