New Abu Dhabi’s container terminal, CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, has commenced operations after the official inauguration on 12 December.
The new box terminal will be operated by a joint venture of CMA Terminals, a subsidiary of CMA CGM Group, and Abu Dhabi Ports (AD Ports). CMA Terminals owns a 70% stake in the joint venture, while AD Ports holds the remaining 30%.
The inauguration was made by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, in the presence of Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of the CMA CGM Group and several key stakeholders.
The two leaders of AD Ports and CMA CGM also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development and enhancement of maritime training and education in the UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. In addition, CMA CGM Group is expected to support the training of Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy students and contribute to the placement of cadets onboard its flagship vessels.
CMA Terminals Khalifa Port showcases advanced port infrastructure, including automated gates and integrated systems that enhance efficiency and sustainability. The facility offers shore power for vessels to reduce emissions, several solar-panel areas contributing to the energy mix of the terminal operations and includes the region’s first net zero carbon administration building, which is powered by renewable energy sources.
The addition of the new box terminal increases Khalifa Port’s annual container capacity by 23% to almost 10 million TEUs. According to the announcement, the new terminal is ready for rail connectivity and will enhance Khalifa Port’s position as a major gateway for the region. The design of the new facility incorporates sustainability principles, which support the UAE’s targets for further developing a circular economy, recycling construction and reducing operational waste.
CMA Terminals Khalifa Port includes eight advanced Ship to Shore (STS) cranes and 20 Electric Rubber Tyred Gantry (e-RTG) cranes.
Rodolphe Saadé stated: “The inauguration of our new container terminal is a major step in the development of Khalifa Port, consolidating Abu Dhabi’s position as a global trade hub. 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.”
The inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port marks the completion of Phase 1 of the new terminal project for CMA CGM, with the opening of an initial quay wall of 800 metres in length, 18.5 metres of depth, and eight STS Cranes adding a total capacity of 1.8 million TEUs to Khalifa Port.
With the opening of the new CMA CGM facility, Khalifa Port now extends over 6.3 sq km, with 41 quay cranes, 159 yard cranes, 11.7km of quay wall and 3.8km of breakwater length.
