AD Ports Group and Emirates Global Aluminium have agreed to jointly invest AED84 million in upgrading EGA’s dedicated berth at Khalifa Port, with the works designed to accommodate larger dry bulk vessels and lift overall cargo-handling capacity.
The multi-phase programme targets completion by August 2028. Once finished, the upgraded berth is expected to handle approximately 8 million tonnes of bulk cargo annually.
The key change is the transition from Capesize to Newcastlemax vessel calls: the larger class can carry 15–20 percent more cargo per voyage, giving EGA more efficient access to the raw materials its smelting operations require.
Physical works include upgrades to the existing capping beam, new bollards and fenders, extended crane beams and foundations, additional utility connections, and dredging to accommodate the deeper-draught vessels. The programme will also enable the installation of additional unloader facilities, improving operational flexibility at the berth.
“This agreement underscores our commitment to investing in world-class port infrastructure that supports the continued growth of the UAE’s industrial and trade sectors. It also reinforces our strategic partnership with Emirates Global Aluminium, a global leader in premium aluminium and one of the nation’s most important industrial champions. Through collaborative, long-term investment, we are enhancing the capabilities of critical trade infrastructure while enabling our partners to grow and compete more effectively on the global stage. Such partnerships remain central to AD Ports Group’s strategy and continue to support our profitable growth as a leading trade enabler across global markets,” Saif Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer – Ports Cluster, AD Ports Group said in a statement.
“Khalifa Port is a strategic gateway for EGA’s global operations. This collaboration with AD Ports Group will strengthen long-term capacity, efficiency, and performance of our dedicated berth at Khalifa Port, ensuring the safe and reliable handling of the raw materials essential to our operations. The project will further strengthen our ability to produce the high-quality aluminium that enables modern life and supports industries around the world,” Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Global Aluminium added.
Khalifa Port ranked 39th in Lloyd’s List’s Top 100 Ports for 2025 and serves as a regional hub for CMA CGM, COSCO, and MSC. It also provides inland connectivity to the Al Faya and Al Ain dry ports and sits alongside KEZAD, Abu Dhabi’s integrated system of economic cities and free zones.
