AD Ports Group and Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) have announced the signing of an agreement to upgrade EGA’s dedicated berth at Khalifa Port, strengthening their long-standing strategic partnership.
Under the agreement, the two entities will jointly invest AED 84 million in a multi-phase berth enhancement programme aimed at modernising EGA’s dedicated port infrastructure. The upgrade will enable the facility to accommodate Newcastlemax dry bulk vessels, which can carry 15–20 percent more cargo than the Capesize vessels currently serving the berth. The improvements are expected to enhance berth productivity, operational efficiency, and overall cargo-handling performance.
Once completed by August 2028, the upgraded berth is projected to handle approximately 8 million tonnes of bulk cargo annually. The development will also improve operational flexibility through the addition of new unloader facilities.
The enhancement programme includes a series of infrastructure upgrades such as strengthening the existing capping beam, installing new bollards and fenders, extending crane beams and foundations, adding utility connections, and carrying out dredging works. These improvements will support the safe and efficient handling of larger vessels while accommodating increased future cargo volumes.
Saif Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer – Ports Cluster at AD Ports Group, said the agreement reflects the group’s commitment to investing in world-class port infrastructure that supports the growth of the UAE’s industrial and trade sectors. He added that the partnership with EGA reinforces efforts to enhance critical trade infrastructure and enable partners to expand their global competitiveness, aligning with AD Ports Group’s broader strategy for sustainable growth.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium, described Khalifa Port as a key gateway for EGA’s global operations. He noted that the collaboration will strengthen long-term capacity, efficiency, and reliability at the dedicated berth, ensuring the safe handling of essential raw materials and supporting the production of high-quality aluminium used across global industries.
The partnership builds on a long-standing collaboration between AD Ports Group and EGA, reflecting their shared focus on operational excellence, infrastructure resilience, and sustainable industrial development.
Khalifa Port, ranked 39th in Lloyd’s List Top 100 Ports for 2025, serves as a regional container hub for major global shipping lines including CMA CGM, COSCO, and MSC. It also functions as a key maritime gateway for Abu Dhabi, offering seamless multimodal connectivity to Khalifa Economic Zones – Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) and extending inland links across the UAE through the dry ports of Al Faya and Al Ain.
