From the GCC to the Black Sea

Our work in the Middle East, stretching from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to the Black Sea and into Africa drives road safety, trade and green mobility and logistics. The IRU RoadMasters and Examiner road safety programmes, the global TIR transit system and the IRU Green Compact decarbonisation roadmap are central to our efforts in the region. 

Safe

With a diverse range of terrains and freight compositions, the region presents unique challenges. IRU raises road safety standards by working closely with authorities and operators to apply internationally recognised assessment, training and examination programmes.

IRU also provides technical assistance to governments and international organisations active in the region on formalising and professionalising the road transport sector.

As an example, IRU advised the Togolese government, transport operators and professional organisations on restructuring and redeveloping the country’s road transport sector. This multi-year project, supported by the World Bank, culminated in a completely new transport law adopted by the Parliament of Togo.

Efficient

Efficient transport and trade are crucial for economic growth across the region. IRU optimises trade routes, reducing transit times and cutting costs through innovative solutions.

Central to our work is the continued expansion of the global TIR transit system. By reducing border waiting times and harmonising customs rules, TIR boosts the efficiency and security of transport operations, allowing goods to move faster and more reliably across the region.

The region is increasingly focusing on digitalising cross-border trade. A greater implementation of tools such as eTIR, e-CMR and e-queues is further advancing trade.

Green

Sustainability is a growing priority in the region. Our initiatives focus on reducing the carbon footprint of commercial road transport, bringing international standards and best practice to companies in the region.

Within the broader context of social, environmental and economic sustainability, our decarbonisation work in the region is framed by the IRU Green Compact, the industry-wide roadmap to carbon neutrality by 2050.

Spanning efficiency measures and alternative fuels implementation, IRU activities include targeting emissions for cross-border transports, eco-driver training, and digitalisation to optimise freight movements.