In a significant move to enhance logistical capacities, Abu Dhabi Ports and Emirates Global Aluminum have entered into a comprehensive agreement aimed at upgrading the infrastructure at Khalifa Port. This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of both entities to foster sustainable industrial growth through state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring increased efficiency and productivity in the region.
Strategic Investment in Infrastructure
Abu Dhabi Ports has finalized an agreement with Emirates Global Aluminum to upgrade the dedicated terminal at Khalifa Port. This partnership marks a key element of their long-term strategic collaboration, with a combined investment of AED 84 million allocated for a multi-phase program. The project will enhance the terminal’s capabilities, enabling it to accommodate Newcastle-max bulk carriers, which can transport 15% to 20% more cargo compared to the current Capesize vessels utilizing the facility. This upgrade is expected to significantly improve the terminal’s productivity and operational efficiency in cargo handling.
Projected Capacity and Operations Enhancements
Upon completion of the planned upgrades by August 2028, the newly developed terminal is anticipated to handle approximately 8 million tons of bulk goods each year. This development will increase operational flexibility by providing additional unloading facilities. Moreover, the project entails modernizing the existing overhead bridge, installing new moorings and fenders, extending crane bridges and foundations, and enhancing connectivity to services and facilities through dredging activities. These improvements will facilitate the handling of larger vessels, ensuring the highest levels of safety and efficiency while supporting anticipated future growth in bulk cargo volumes.
Commitment to Sustainable Growth
Saeed Al Mazrouei, CEO of the Ports Sector at Abu Dhabi Ports, stated, “The agreement underscores our commitment to continue investing in world-class port infrastructure that supports the sustainable growth of both the industrial and commercial sectors in the UAE. It also strengthens our strategic partnership with Emirates Global Aluminum, one of the national industrial cornerstones.” Al Mazrouei emphasized that long-term investment is crucial for enhancing vital commercial infrastructure and enabling partners to bolster their business growth on a global scale.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, CEO of Emirates Global Aluminum, commented, “Khalifa Port serves as a global strategic gateway for our operations, and our collaboration with Abu Dhabi Ports will enhance the capabilities, efficiency, and operational performance of the terminal over the long term.” He added that this initiative would ensure the safe and reliable handling of raw materials essential for their operations. Additionally, it will strengthen the company’s capacity to produce high-quality aluminum that meets modern life demands and services various industries worldwide.
This ongoing collaboration reflects the deep-seated commitment of both Abu Dhabi Ports and Emirates Global Aluminum to operational excellence, infrastructure resilience, and sustainable industrial growth.