Abu Dhabi continues to make significant strides in enhancing its infrastructure with the recent openings of Al Faya Dry Port and Al Aliah Ferry Terminal, pivotal projects aimed at bolstering logistics and transportation.
AD Ports Group inaugurated the Al Faya Dry Port, strategically positioned between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, to improve the connectivity of Khalifa Port. This inland dry port enhances logistics services across the UAE and will act as an Inland Container Depot (ICD) connected by land to Khalifa Port. The facility is expected to facilitate quicker market access and more cost-efficient cargo handling for Dubai and the Northern Emirates.
According to the announcement, Al Faya Dry Port will serve CMA CGM as its first key client, with plans to accommodate other strategic partners like COSCO and MSC, depending on demand. The facility has been built with scalability in mind and boasts initial container capacity for 900 Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs).
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized the importance of this project: “The opening of Al Faya Dry Port is not only a tangible example of our support to key commercial partners, but a sign of our commitment to raising the quality of supply chains across the UAE.” He highlighted how this new infrastructure hub will aid CMA CGM and Khalifa Port’s efforts to optimize customer supply chains throughout the emirate.
Notably, the Al Faya Dry Port is digitally integrated with Khalifa Port via Maqta Technologies’ Advanced Trade & Logistics Platform (ATLP), which will help generate origin and destination (O&D) business. The physical aspects of the facility also comply with the International Shipping & Port Facility Security Code (ISPS), ensuring globally recognized standards for safety and efficiency.
Alongside the dry port development, the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), working with Abu Dhabi Maritime, has inaugurated the Al Aliah Ferry Terminal. This new facility dramatically enhances the connectivity of Al Aliah Island with the rest of Abu Dhabi, supporting local development and enhancing mobility options for residents.
The modern ferry terminal spans 3,900 square meters and features comfortable amenities, including seating for 60 passengers, specialized berths for loading and off-loading ferries, and sufficient parking facilities for trucks and private vehicles. This development meets the daily mobility needs of those living and working on Al Aliah Island.
Dr. Abdulla Hamad AlGhfeli, Acting Director-General of the Integrated Transport Centre, remarked on the significance of the project saying, "The opening of Al Aliah Ferry Terminal marks a new milestone in Abu Dhabi Mobility’s..." This project signifies the region's commitment to developing advanced maritime infrastructure.
Captain Saif Al Mheiri, the CEO of Abu Dhabi Maritime, echoed this sentiment, mentioning how new, customized ferries have been commissioned following the terminal's opening. He stated, "The opening of the ferry terminal marks another milestone..." emphasizing the initiative to create safe, efficient, and enjoyable experiences for all waterway users.
The combined efforts reflected by these developments showcase Abu Dhabi's strategic vision to solidify its position as a global maritime hub. Both projects align with the broader aim of enhancing the emirate's infrastructure to meet future demands, driven by sustainable solutions and technological advancements.
With these major developments, Abu Dhabi is setting the stage for transformative logistical advancements, ensuring it remains at the forefront of regional infrastructure and mobility enhancements.