Q&A With Abu Dhabi’s AD Ports

AD Ports Group (formerly Abu Dhabi Ports) was launched in 2006 and has since grown to become an integrated portfolio of world-class ports, economic freezones and logistics supply chains. Breakbulk caught up with Jakob Larsen, Chief Strategy & Product Officer for Ports, for an update on the company's ambitious investment drive.


Q: AD Ports said that last year was marked by “unprecedented global expansion and strategic acquisitions.” Could you highlight one or two of these projects and how they have impacted the business?

A: AD Ports Group is one of the fastest-growing enablers of trade, industry and logistics, whose integrated businesses are helping societies grow and prosper around the world. Our diverse staff of more than 6,700 employees are dedicated to leading the future of global trade with innovative, end-to-end supply chain solutions, world-class infrastructure and smart new routes for a changing world. The international footprint of the group increased dramatically in 2023 following the integration of Spain-based Noatum, a global provider of integrated ports, maritime and logistics services with presence across 27 countries, and a series of ports, terminals, maritime and shipping agreements in Jordan, Egypt, Pakistan, Republic of Congo, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, which more than doubled our revenue and extended our global reach to 46 countries.

Q: Could you mention any additional recent expansions at your facilities?

A: Abu Dhabi Ports expanded regionally and globally in 2023, opening one of the world’s most modern cruise terminals in Jordan and clinching transformative agreements to develop and operate world-class port and terminal facilities in Pakistan, Republic of Congo and Egypt. Khalifa Port has launched a new dry-docking business and has expanded the South Quay and Khalifa Port Logistics bulk, liquid and energy cargo areas.

Q: What specific strategies are you implementing to capture market share and increase competitiveness in servicing the offshore oil and gas industries?

A: Mugharraq Port (located on the western coast of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi) services nearby offshore oil and gas projects, including the prominent Hail and Gasha facility. With the new certification as an international port, Mugharraq Port can now receive international and local vessels including container feeders, bulk and breakbulk carriers, mobile offshore drilling units, tugboats, chemical tankers, offshore support vessels, passenger ships and high-speed cargo crafts.

Q: At Breakbulk Europe, you will be sponsoring the panel “Thinking Outside the Box: Port Innovations to Overcome Issues of Space and Congestion”. AD Ports is known for its innovative culture – how has technology impacted the industry?

A: Today’s smart ports and terminals are adopting new technologies – remote operations, autonomous systems and integrated information and communications platforms to better track and monitor ships and expedite deliveries, warehousing and customs. The goal is to increase productivity and enhance the client experience. Eventually, adding value to our customers and stakeholders defines our sense of purpose, which means that we will not spare any efforts in adopting new and creative solutions for that aim.


The speaker session “Thinking Outside the Box: Port Innovations to Overcome Issues of Space and Congestion” will take place on the main stage at Breakbulk Europe on Wednesday, 22 May from 12:45–13:25.

TOP PHOTO: Khalifa Port, UAE. CREDIT: AD Ports Group