The Abu Dhabi-based facilitator of global trade, logistics and industry, AD Ports Group, has announced that it plans to expand Khalifa Port, one of the world’s fastest-growing ports, to include drydock services.
The expansion is set to further enhance the port’s offering of port and marine logistics services, from container and cargo handling to vessel repairs and maintenance, to better meet the needs of existing clients and attract new ones.
Furthermore, the addition of drydock services will enable Khalifa Port to meet the growing demand for these services from regional and international clients, as part of the group’s long-term growth strategy.
“The addition of drydock services is a strategic move aimed at driving growth and enhancing the company’s competitive position in the market. AD Ports Group’s extensive experience in the port and marine logistics industry and its commitment to innovation and excellence make it well-positioned to succeed in this new venture,” AD Ports Group CEO and managing director, Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi said, adding that the expansion is part of the group’s ongoing commitment to providing clients with the best possible services and solutions to meet their evolving needs, while further enhancing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading hub for global trade.
The recent announcement is part of an expansion project inaugurated by the UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in December, to mark AD Ports Group’s 10th anniversary.
The $1.09 billion (AED 4 billion) expansion project, which entails the development of the Port’s South Quay, Khalifa Port Logistics, and Abu Dhabi Terminals, has increased Khalifa Port’s area size from 2.43 square kilometres to 8.63 square kilometres, extending its quay wall from 2.3 kilometres to 12.5 kilometres.
Currently, the port features 21 berths and offers bespoke services for key strategic industries, positioning it as one of the world’s leading deep-water ports, with an estimated value of $5.5 billion (AED 20.4 billion).
Khalifa Port has been ranked in the top five of the global Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), developed by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence, and now hosts three of the world’s top four shipping operators, COSCO, MSC and CMA CGM.
