HH Sheikh Khaled Bin Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has inaugurated CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, a AED 3.1bn (US$ 845mn) container terminal managed by a joint venture between the CMA CGM Group’s subsidiary CMA Terminals (70 per cent) and Abu Dhabi Ports (30 per cent).
HH was briefed on arrival at CMA Terminals Khalifa Port by Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, in the presence of Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, CMA CGM Group and other key stakeholders.
HH also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) by Rodolphe Saadé and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, aimed at the development and enhancement of maritime training and education in the UAE and GCC region. The CMA CGM Group will also support the training of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy students and contribute to the placement of cadets onboard its flagship vessels.
Diversification
HH highlighted the significance of this project in further advancing comprehensive and sustainable economic development while supporting efforts to diversify the national economy.
The inauguration is a major milestone in the development of Khalifa Port, AD Ports Group’s flagship port. The world-class container, roll-on/roll-off and multipurpose port facility opened in December 2012, and in 12 years has expanded to become one of the world’s fastest-growing and most efficient commercial ports.
The addition of the CMA CGM facility increases Khalifa Port’s annual container capacity by 23 per cent to almost 10mn TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units). The new terminal is ready for rail connectivity and will significantly enhance Khalifa Port’s position as a major gateway for the region.
Sustainability principles
The design of the new facility incorporates sustainability principles, which support the UAE’s wider targets for further developing a circular economy, recycling construction and reducing operational waste.
“The new terminal will boost trade flows and foster long-term economic growth in Abu Dhabi and the UAE,” stated HE Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Chairman, AD Ports Group.
“This strategic infrastructure will boost shipping and logistics activities across the region. Together with our partner AD Ports Group, we are pleased to deliver a modern terminal with a strong focus on innovation and sustainability,” commented Saade.
“This new facility places AD Ports Group firmly in the ranks of the world’s leading global port operators,” remarked Capt. Al Shamisi.
