AD Ports Group and Nimex Terminals have signed landmark agreements to establish the UAE’s first private-sector Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) terminal hubs at Khalifa Port. The deal, valued at over AED 30 billion (USD 8 billion), will transform Khalifa Port into a leading low-carbon energy and petrochemical trading hub.
The two facilities, designed to accommodate large long-haul gas carriers, will support the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 strategy while expanding the port’s capabilities to meet rising global demand for LNG and LPG.
Strategic and sustainable investment
AD Ports Group will invest up to AED 1.3 billion (USD 354 million) in infrastructure development, including dredging and jetty construction. Nimex Terminals will contribute AED 2.6 billion (USD 700 million) toward LNG and LPG storage tanks, regasification systems, pipelines, loading arms, flare structures, and firefighting facilities.
The LNG terminal, covering 130,000 m², will offer 400,000 m³ of cryogenic storage, while the LPG terminal, spanning 90,000 m², will provide 280,000 m³ capacity. Both facilities will serve import, export, and transshipment operations, focusing on the growing Asian markets. Development will take place in phases over five years, with initial operations targeted for mid-2028, and full steady-state operations by 2031 (LNG) and 2033 (LPG).
Economic and strategic impact
The hubs will leverage Khalifa Port’s state-of-the-art maritime infrastructure, multimodal connectivity, and proximity to KEZAD (Khalifa Economic Zones – Abu Dhabi), providing efficient access to major trade corridors. The project is expected to attract foreign investment, and generate high-value employment. In addition, it will stimulate shipping, logistics, and energy services.
Leadership comments
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, AD Ports Group CEO, said:
“These agreements mark a transformative milestone for Khalifa Port and the UAE’s energy sector. Our partnership with Nimex Terminals will equip Khalifa Port with low-impact fuel infrastructure, advancing our commitment to a sustainable future.”
Azmat Mahmood, Executive Chairman of Nimex Terminals, added:
“Our joint investment will enhance Khalifa Port’s competitiveness and support the clean energy transition, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable economic growth and advanced fuel technologies.”
Lastly, with this initiative, Khalifa Port is set to strengthen its position as a regional and global hub for LNG and LPG.
