AD Ports Group and Emirates Global Aluminium have signed an agreement to enhance EGA’s dedicated berth at Khalifa Port, committing a joint investment of AE$ 84 million to a multi-phase upgrade programme designed to accommodate Newcastlemax dry bulk vessels capable of transporting 15 to 20% more cargo than the Capesize vessels currently calling at the berth.
Upon completion of the planned works by August 2028, the upgraded berth is expected to support the handling of approximately 8 million tonnes of bulk cargo annually, with the project also enhancing operational flexibility through the installation of additional unloader facilities.
The enhancement programme encompasses upgrades to the existing capping beam, installation of new bollards and fenders, extension of crane beams and foundations, additional utility connections and dredging works, collectively enabling the safe and efficient accommodation of larger vessel classes as bulk-handling volumes increase.
Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO of the Ports Cluster at AD Ports Group, described the agreement as a reflection of the company’s commitment to investing in world-class infrastructure supporting the UAE’s industrial and trade sectors, while reinforcing the long-standing strategic partnership with EGA, one of the nation’s most important industrial champions.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, CEO of Emirates Global Aluminium, characterised Khalifa Port as a strategic gateway for EGA’s global operations, noting that the collaboration will strengthen the long-term capacity, efficiency and performance of the dedicated berth, ensuring reliable handling of the raw materials essential to the company’s aluminium production.
Khalifa Port serves as a regional container hub for CMA CGM, COSCO and MSC, and functions as a key maritime gateway to Abu Dhabi with multimodal access to Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi and inland connectivity across the UAE and wider Gulf region through the dry ports of Al Faya and Al Ain.
