AD Ports to expand Khalifa Port with ship repair offering

AD Ports Group has moved to further expand Khalifa Port, Abu Dhabi’s flagship deepwater port, from container and cargo handling to include drydock services.

The addition of vessel repairs and maintenance will enable Khalifa Port to meet the growing demand for these services from regional and international clients, AD Ports said.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, managing director and CEO of AD Ports Group, commented: “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, combined with its commitment to innovation and excellence, make it well-positioned to succeed in this new venture.”

Khalifa Port’s expansion into drydocks is just the latest in a series of strategic moves AD Ports Group has made to position itself for long term. The move follows Khalifa Port’s previous $1bn expansion, inaugurated by President Sheikh Mohamed in December. That included the development of the port’s South Quay, Khalifa Port Logistics and Abu Dhabi terminals.

The port has grown to 8.63 sq km from 2.43 sq km, while its quay wall has been extended from 2.3 km to 12.5km. It now provides 21 berths and offers bespoke services for key strategic industries, with an estimated value of around $5.55bn. The expansion scheme is set to make a major contribution to AD Port Group’s goal of increasing handling capacity at Khalifa Port by 2030 to 15m teu per year, and general cargo handling capacity to 25m tonnes.