|”'[[Abu Dhabi]]”’
|”'[[Abu Dhabi]]”’
|”'[[Khalifa Port]]”’
|”'[[Khalifa Port]]”’
|Flagship deepwater, semiautomated container port; hosts long-term concessions with global lines<ref>{{Cite web |title=”New Era” in UAE’s Trading and Maritime History Opens with Launch of $7.2Bil Khalifa Port |url=https://maritime-executive.com/article/new-era-in-uae-s-trading-and-maritime-history-opens-with-launch-of-7-2bil-khalifa-port |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=The Maritime Executive |language=en}}</ref>
|CSP Abu Dhabi, Autoterminal, CMA Terminals, Nimex LNG/LPG
|-
|-
|”'[[Abu Dhabi]]”’
|”'[[Abu Dhabi]]”’
|”'[[Zayed Port]]”’
|”'[[Zayed Port]]”’
|Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, General Cargo
|Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal
|-
|-
|”'[[Abu Dhabi]]”’
|”'[[Abu Dhabi]]”’
|”'[[Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi|Al Dhafra]]”’
|”'[[Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi|Al Dhafra]]”’
|”’Mugharraq Port”’
|”’Mugharraq Port”’
|Offshore oil & gas support; RoRo; ISPS recognition and upgrades for offshore projects<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-12-06 |title=Abu Dhabi port gets offshore service upgrades |url=https://www.offshore-mag.com/regional-reports/middle-east/article/14215109/abu-dhabi-port-gets-offshore-service-upgrades |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=Offshore Magazine |language=en}}</ref>
|Offshore Oil & Gas Support, Ro-Ro
|-
|-
|”'[[Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi|Al Dhafra]]”’
|”'[[Al Dhafra, Abu Dhabi|Al Dhafra]]”’
|”'[[Fujairah]]”’
|”'[[Fujairah]]”’
|”’Fujairah Terminals”’
|”’Fujairah Terminals”’
|Multipurpose terminal operated under a 35year concession (2017)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Abu Dhabi Ports Signs Concession Agreement with Fujairah Port |url=https://maritime-executive.com/corporate/abu-dhabi-ports-signs-concession-agreement-with-fujairah-port |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=The Maritime Executive |language=en}}</ref>
|Multipurpose (Key UAE East Coast multipurpose port)
|}
|}
=== ”Khalifa Port” ===
=== ”Khalifa Port” ===
[[Khalifa Port]] is among the most advanced container facilities in the [[Middle East]], designed for ultra large container vessels and operated under long-term [[Concession (contract)|concessions]] with major carriers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=”New Era” in UAE’s Trading and Maritime History Opens with Launch of $7.2Bil Khalifa Port |url=https://maritime-executive.com/article/new-era-in-uae-s-trading-and-maritime-history-opens-with-launch-of-7-2bil-khalifa-port |access-date=2026-02-11 |website=The Maritime Executive |language=en}}</ref>
Khalifa Port serves as the flagship facility of Abu Dhabi Ports and represents one of the most advanced [[container terminals]] in the Middle East. The semi-automated terminal handles ultra-large container vessels and features specialized terminals operated by major global shipping companies through long-term concession agreements.
=== ”Cruise Operations” ===
=== ”Cruise Operations” ===
The ”’Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal (Zayed Port)”’ opened in 2015 and serves international [[Cruise line|cruise lines]].
In ”’February 2020”’, ”'[[MSC Cruises]]”’ and Abu Dhabi Ports signed a long term agreement granting preferential berthing rights at [[Zayed Port]] and [[Sir Bani Yas|Sir Bani Yas Island]]. [wam.ae] [mscpressarea.com], [cruiseandferry.net]
Abu Dhabi Ports operates the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port. The terminal, officially opened in 2015, provides berthing and guest services for international [[Cruise line|cruise lines]]. In 2020, Abu Dhabi Ports secured a long-term agreement with [[MSC Cruises]] for preferential berthing rights.
Abu Dhabi Ports operates the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port. The terminal, officially opened in 2015, provides berthing and guest services for international [[Cruise line|cruise lines]]. In 2020, Abu Dhabi Ports secured a long-term agreement with [[MSC Cruises]] for preferential berthing rights.
The [[Aqaba]] Cruise Terminal was inaugurated in January 2023. It is the first and only cruise terminal in Aqaba. It promises to deliver an exceptional travel experience, firmly establishing [[Jordan]]’s position as a major tourist destination on the [[Red Sea]].
The [[Aqaba]] Cruise Terminal was inaugurated in January 2023. It is the first and only cruise terminal in Aqaba. It promises to deliver an exceptional travel experience, firmly establishing [[Jordan]]’s position as a major tourist destination on the [[Red Sea]].
=== ”Port Facilities and Capabilities” ===
=== ”Port Facilities and Capabilities” ===
Abu Dhabi Ports’ facilities provide multipurpose, end-to-end logistics solutions with infrastructure designed to handle containerized [[cargo]], general cargo, roll-on/roll-off ([[Roll-on/roll-off|Ro-Ro]]) vessels, [[Cruise ship|cruise ships]], and specialized energy products including [[liquefied natural gas]] (LNG) and [[liquefied petroleum gas]] (LPG).
Abu Dhabi Ports’ facilities provide multipurpose, end-to-end logistics solutions with infrastructure designed to handle containerized [[cargo]], general cargo, -on/roll-off-on/roll-offRo-Ro]] vessels, [[Cruise ship|cruise ships]], and specialized energy products including [[liquefied natural gas]] (LNG) and [[liquefied petroleum gas]] (LPG).
== ”’Multimodal Connectivity”’ ==
== ”’Multimodal Connectivity”’ ==
=== ”Port Automation” ===
=== ”Port Automation” ===
Abu Dhabi Ports has implemented advanced automation technologies to improve operational efficiency and safety. Abu Dhabi Terminal (ADT) operates the region’s first semi-automated container terminal at Khalifa Port, utilizing automated equipment for container handling operations.
Abu Dhabi Ports has implemented advanced automation technologies to improve operational efficiency and safety. Abu Dhabi Terminal (ADT) operates the region’s first semi-automated container terminal at Khalifa Port, utilizing automated equipment for container handling operations.
=== ”Digital Infrastructure” ===
=== ”Digital Infrastructure” ===
 |
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| Type | Subsidiary / Business Cluster |
|---|---|
| Industry | Ports
Maritime Shipping |
| Founded | 2006 |
| Headquarters | Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
| Key People | Saif Al Mazrouei (CEO, Ports Cluster) Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi (Group CEO) |
| Parent: | AD Ports Group (Majority-owned by ADQ) |
| Employees: | 4,061 (Group-wide, end-2022) |
| Website: | www.adports.ae |
Abu Dhabi Ports(Arabic: موانئ أبوظبي), also known as the Ports Cluster, is the primary business vertical of AD Ports Group responsible for port operations, development, and regulation across the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. Established in 2006 by Emiri Decree No. 6/2006[1], it operates seven ports and terminals within the United Arab Emirates, including Khalifa Port, which was ranked third globally in the 2022 Container Port Performance Index.[2]
Establishment and Early Development
[edit]
Abu Dhabi Ports unified the commercial ports of the emirate under a single authority. The organization succeeded the former Abu Dhabi Seaports Authority, consolidating port management and regulatory functions to support the UAE’s economic diversification strategy and growing trade volumes.[3]
Khalifa Port and Infrastructure Expansion
[edit]
The inauguration of Khalifa Port on December 12, 2012. The facility became the region’s first semi-automated deep-water container terminal, designed to accommodate the world’s largest container vessels[4].
Between 2015 and 2020, the organization expanded its portfolio with the opening of the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port officially opened 13 December 2015[5].
Recent Developments
[edit]
From 2022 onwards, Abu Dhabi Ports accelerated its expansion with investments in sustainable infrastructure, including the region’s first net zero carbon administration building at CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, inaugurated in December 2024.[6][7]
Domestic Ports and Terminals (UAE)
[edit]
Abu Dhabi Ports operates six port facilities across the United Arab Emirates, strategically located to serve different sectors of the maritime and logistics industry.
| City | Port | Key Terminals / Specialization |
|---|---|---|
| Abu Dhabi | Khalifa Port | Flagship deepwater, semiautomated container port; hosts long-term concessions with global lines[8] |
| Abu Dhabi | Zayed Port | General cargo and Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal |
| Abu Dhabi | Musaffah Port | Heavy Industry, Manufacturing |
| Al Dhafra | Mugharraq Port | Offshore oil & gas support; RoRo; ISPS recognition and upgrades for offshore projects[9] |
| Al Dhafra | Sila Port | Commercial & Community Fishing |
| Fujairah | Fujairah Terminals | Multipurpose terminal operated under a 35year concession (2017)[10] |
Khalifa Port is among the most advanced container facilities in the Middle East, designed for ultra large container vessels and operated under long-term concessions with major carriers.[11]
The Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal (Zayed Port) opened in 2015 and serves international cruise lines.
In February 2020, MSC Cruises and Abu Dhabi Ports signed a long term agreement granting preferential berthing rights at Zayed Port and Sir Bani Yas Island. [wam.ae] [mscpressarea.com], [cruiseandferry.net]
Abu Dhabi Ports operates the Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port. The terminal, officially opened in 2015, provides berthing and guest services for international cruise lines. In 2020, Abu Dhabi Ports secured a long-term agreement with MSC Cruises for preferential berthing rights.
The Aqaba Cruise Terminal was inaugurated in January 2023. It is the first and only cruise terminal in Aqaba. It promises to deliver an exceptional travel experience, firmly establishing Jordan’s position as a major tourist destination on the Red Sea.
Port Facilities and Capabilities
[edit]
Abu Dhabi Ports’ facilities provide multipurpose, end-to-end logistics solutions with infrastructure designed to handle containerized cargo, general cargo, roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels, cruise ships, and specialized energy products including liquefied natural gas (LNG) and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
Multimodal Connectivity
[edit]
Etihad Rail Integration
[edit]
Abu Dhabi Ports has integrated rail connectivity into its port operations through agreements with Etihad Rail, the UAE’s national railway operator. The rail connections at Khalifa Port and Fujairah Terminals link the ports to the national railway network, enhancing capacity and efficiency.
Inland Container Depot
[edit]
The Al Faya Dry Port Inland Container Depot, opened in 2025, provides inland container handling and storage facilities connected to Khalifa Port. The facility, anchored by CMA CGM, extends the port’s operational capacity inland and reduces congestion at the coastal terminal.
Technology and Innovation
[edit]
Abu Dhabi Ports has implemented advanced automation technologies to improve operational efficiency and safety. Abu Dhabi Terminal (ADT) operates the region’s first semi-automated container terminal at Khalifa Port, utilizing automated equipment for container handling operations.
Digital Infrastructure
[edit]
The Ports Cluster has invested in digital systems for vessel traffic management, cargo tracking, and customs clearance. These systems provide real-time visibility for customers and support efficient coordination between port operators, shipping lines, and logistics providers.
Sustainability Initiatives
[edit]
Net Zero Infrastructure
[edit]
Abu Dhabi Ports has committed to reducing its environmental impact through sustainable infrastructure development. CMA Terminals Khalifa Port features the region’s first net zero carbon administration building, incorporating energy-efficient design, renewable energy generation, and carbon offset measures.
Marine Biodiversity
[edit]
In January 2024, Abu Dhabi Ports, in collaboration with CMA CGM Group and Ecocean, installed 48 Biohuts at Khalifa Port. These submerged structures are designed to restore biodiversity and provide habitat for marine life in harbour areas.
In 2025, Khalifa Port received its first dual-fuel methanol vessel, the CMA CGM Iron, demonstrating the port’s capability to service ships using alternative fuels.
Performance and Recognition
[edit]
Container Port Performance
[edit]
Khalifa Port was ranked third globally in the 2022 Container Port Performance Index (CPPI), developed by the World Bank and S&P Global Market Intelligence. The index measures port efficiency based on vessel turnaround times and other operational metrics.
The ports cluster has earned numerous international awards from prestigious organizations, highlighting its role in driving economic growth and setting industry benchmarks.
- 2022
- Stevie International Business Awards: Gold Award for Achievements in Growth.
- Harvard Business Council International Awards: Diamond-level Organisational Award for contributions to economic growth and regional expansion.
- 2023
- Stevie International Business Awards: Gold Awards for Fastest-Growing Company of the Year – Middle East & Africa and Sustainability Leadership.
- Harvard Business Council International Awards:
- Project Diamond Award for the Shamal Project: Construction of a New Container Terminal.
- Executive Diamond Award for Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO of Ports Cluster.
- Guinness World Records title for assembling the largest shipping container logo/image
- 2024 / 2025
- Harvard Business Council International Awards:
- Project Diamond Award for the Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS) project.
- Professional Diamond Award for Dr. Souraj Salah (process improvement lead).
- Professional Gold Award for Mohamed Al Qubaisi, Operations Manager at Zayed Port.
- Green World & Green Apple Environment Awards:
- Silver Award for Transport & Distribution – Community Commitment.
- Bronze Award for Sustainable Development – Carbon Reduction.
- Institutional Investor/Extel Survey: Ranked No.1 in Transportation sector and named Most Honoured Company.
- Harvard Business Council International Awards:
2012-2015
2012: Inauguration of Khalifa Port (12/12/12)
2015: Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal at Zayed Port officially opened
2016-2018
2016: Concession agreement with COSCO SHIPPING Ports Limited for Khalifa Port Container Terminal 2
2017: Groundbreaking for CSP Abu Dhabi Container Terminal
2018: First ARMG and STS cranes delivered for CSP Abu Dhabi Terminal
2018: CSP Abu Dhabi Terminal inaugurated
2018: 30-year concession with MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company
2019-2021
2019: Mega-vessels begin calling at CSP Abu Dhabi Terminal
2020: Long-term agreement with MSC Cruises for preferential berthing
2021: Restructuring into AD Ports Group
2022-2023
2022: Khalifa Port expansion inaugurated by UAE President
2022: MoU with Hutchison Ports for strategic partnership
2023: Khalifa Port ranked 3 globally in CPPI
2024-2025
2024: CMA Terminals Khalifa Port inaugurated (December)
2025: Al Faya Dry Port Inland Container Depot opened
2025: Agreement with CMA CGM to expand CMA Terminals Khalifa Port
2025: Landmark agreements with Nimex Terminals for LNG & LPG hubs (AED 30 billion)
2025: Agreement for E-Methanol bunkering/export facility
2025: Bonded Rail Customs Corridor linking Khalifa Port and Fujairah Terminals
2025: Khalifa Port rises to 39 in Lloyd’s List Top 100 Ports
2025: First dual-fuel methanol vessel (CMA CGM Iron) calls at Khalifa Port
