AD Ports Group wrapped up 2024 with significant achievements, including global expansion, infrastructure upgrades, and strong financial performance. One of the year’s highlights was the inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, which increased the port’s capacity by 23%, reinforcing its status as a key global commercial hub. Vehicle traffic at Khalifa Port’s Autoterminal also surged by 30% in the first half of the year, supported by the addition of 90,000 square meters of new storage space.

The group expanded internationally with a series of strategic moves. In Pakistan, it secured a 25-year concession at Karachi Port, pledging $75 million over two years to upgrade and manage cargo operations. In Egypt, AD Ports signed agreements to develop and manage cruise terminals in Safaga, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh, adding to its existing presence in Aqaba, Jordan. It also expanded its network in Egypt by acquiring Safina B.V., bringing its reach to 15 Egyptian ports.

Further extending its footprint, AD Ports acquired a majority stake in Tanzania International Container Terminal Services and partnered with Adani in a joint venture in Tanzania. In Angola, it won a concession to manage a key terminal at the Port of Luanda. In Georgia, the group acquired a 60% stake in the Tbilisi Dry Port, enhancing connectivity across the Middle Corridor route from Asia to Europe.

The integration of Noatum’s assets also played a key role in aligning the group’s operations with its international growth strategy.

Financially, AD Ports delivered record revenue of Dhs12.72 billion in the first nine months of 2024, with a net profit of Dhs1.29 billion. Growth was driven by strong performances across its core sectors, including ports, logistics, and shipping. Moody’s A1 credit rating for the group underscored its operational strength, while successful refinancing of a $2.25 billion loan and an expansion of its credit facility showcased its financial stability.

AD Ports also made strides in technology and sustainability. The acquisition of a 60% stake in Dubai Technologies bolstered its digital capabilities under the newly rebranded Maqta Technologies Group. The group launched an unmanned vessel, SAFEEN Green, for marine surveys and set a Guinness World Record™️ for the world’s most powerful electric tugboat, Bu Tinah, in collaboration with Damen Shipyards.

In its KEZAD Group economic zones, AD Ports announced a Dhs5 billion investment for a lithium processing plant, a Dhs367 million modular fabrication facility, and a Dhs1 billion deal with Azizi Developments to establish 12 factories. The zone also invested Dhs621 million to expand its warehousing capacity by 43%.

AD Ports’ CEO, Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, told Gulf Business that these achievements reflect the group’s position as a global leader in trade and logistics. He highlighted the group’s top-20 global ranking among container port operators and its continued growth in key markets like Angola, Pakistan, and Egypt.