AD Ports Group, a prominent global facilitator of integrated trade, industrial, and logistics solutions, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with CMA Terminals Khalifa Port and CMA CGM Group, a major international provider of maritime, land, air, and logistics services.
The agreement aims to advance efficient intermodal solutions and expand inland connectivity across the UAE and the wider region by leveraging AD Ports Group’s unified inland intermodal network.
Through this MoU, the three entities plan to collaborate in strengthening cargo movement across AD Ports Group’s network of rail-connected inland container depots, dry ports, and cargo hubs.
This initiative will extend the operational reach of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port beyond the port itself to serve inland consumer markets, industrial zones, and regional destinations.
The partnership will further assess opportunities to enhance cargo flows within the UAE and across neighbouring markets, including the Northern Emirates. It will also broaden trade route flexibility by enabling rail-linked inland connectivity to the borders of the Sultanate of Oman and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
By facilitating more streamlined inbound cargo movement to industrial and manufacturing sectors, the initiative is designed to contribute to the UAE’s industrial development strategy. It will do so by establishing adaptable and resilient export corridors supported by multiple inland and gateway routing options.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, stated: “This MoU represents a significant milestone in strengthening the UAE’s inland intermodal logistics framework under a unified platform.
By welcoming CMA CGM as the first global shipping line partner within this network, we are enhancing the role of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port beyond conventional port operations and building a more integrated, flexible, and resilient trade gateway for both the UAE and the broader region.
This initiative, aligned with the strategic vision of the UAE’s leadership, directly contributes to national industrial growth by improving cargo accessibility, expanding corridor options, and reinforcing the long-term competitiveness of supply chains.”
Launched in December 2024, CMA Terminals Khalifa Port operates as a joint venture between CMA CGM Group, which holds a 70% stake, and AD Ports Group, which owns 30%. It is one of three container terminals at Khalifa Port managed by leading global shipping operators.
Jesper Stenbak, Regional Director for the Middle East Gulf, Indian Sub-Continent, and Indian Ocean at CMA CGM Group, commented: “This partnership reinforces CMA Terminals Khalifa Port’s position as a gateway terminal with strong inland integration, extending CMA CGM’s operational reach beyond the port through seamless connectivity across the UAE and into regional markets. By aligning maritime services more closely with inland cargo distribution, the collaboration enhances routing efficiency, strengthens supply chain resilience, and expands service capabilities for customers.”
AD Ports Group’s inland intermodal network links key gateway ports with inland dry ports, rail-connected cargo facilities, and major industrial centres across the UAE. This integrated system supports more efficient cargo transportation, improved inland connectivity, and enhanced access to regional trade corridors.
