Khalifa Port Marks Milestone with First LNG-Powered Automotive Cargo Ship

United Global Ro-Ro Launches Sustainable Maritime Era with Maiden Call of LNG-Powered Carrier at Khalifa Port

ABU DHABI: United Global Ro-Ro (UGR), a joint venture between Noatum Maritime—part of AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster—and Erkport, has officially launched its operations with a major milestone: the first-ever call of its LNG-powered Pure Car and Truck Carrier (PCTC), UGR Al Samha, at Autoterminal Khalifa Port.

This inaugural deployment represents the start of United Global Ro-Ro’s bold vision to revolutionize Ro-Ro (roll-on/roll-off) logistics with sustainable, efficient, and high-capacity shipping solutions across major global trade routes.

Khalifa Port Becomes the Gateway for Greener Ro-Ro Shipping

Khalifa Port, the UAE’s leading deep-sea hub, has now become the operational home for UGR’s cutting-edge LNG-powered fleet. The UGR Al Samha is designed to support both regional and international trade, strengthening feedering links and reinforcing the UAE’s strategic position in the global maritime industry.

With an impressive cargo capacity exceeding 7,000 Car Equivalent Units (CEU) spread across 12 decks, the vessel is specially engineered to handle not only standard vehicles but also high and heavy cargo. Its advanced build enables it to serve a wide network of markets, including the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean.

A Greener Approach to Maritime Logistics

What truly sets UGR Al Samha apart is its commitment to eco-conscious shipping. Powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and built with the latest vessel design technologies, the ship significantly reduces harmful emissions—aligning with the UAE’s long-term decarbonization goals.

By integrating clean propulsion systems with smart port connectivity, United Global Ro-Ro is offering a cost-effective and environmentally responsible alternative for car and truck transportation across oceans.

Voices from the Helm

Captain Ammar Al Shaiba, CEO of the Maritime & Shipping Cluster at AD Ports Group, highlighted the environmental impact of the venture:

“The maiden call of UGR Al Samha at Khalifa Port is a landmark not just for United Global Ro-Ro, but for our wider strategy focused on sustainable innovation. With this vessel now in service, we’re reinforcing our ability to offer reliable Ro-Ro logistics while minimizing environmental impact.”

Tolga Emrah Gezgin, CEO of United Global Ro-Ro, expressed enthusiasm about this historic milestone:

“We are proud to complete our first successful voyage and mark the beginning of our partnership with Noatum Maritime. Our eco-friendly model is designed to reduce both costs and emissions. This is just the start of a new chapter in maritime logistics, and we are ready to set new standards with many more voyages to come.”

Regular Routes and Future Plans

With its maiden voyage complete, UGR Al Samha will now be placed on regular routes linking vital automotive and industrial hubs, helping meet the rising global demand for clean and efficient vehicle transport.

This deployment also forms a key part of Noatum Maritime’s broader mission to expand Ro-Ro services and transition its fleet towards alternative fuels—solidifying its role as a global leader in green shipping solutions.

Showcasing Innovation at Khalifa Port

The maiden call ceremony at Khalifa Port was attended by major players in the maritime, logistics, and automotive industries. Attendees had the opportunity to tour the vessel and witness first-hand the advanced technologies and design features that define UGR Al Samha.

The event not only marked the beginning of a new venture but also underscored the strategic role of the UAE as a global hub for sustainable maritime trade.