AD Ports Group has entered into long-term agreements with Nimex Terminals to develop two major terminal hubs for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) at Khalifa Port. This partnership marks a pivotal advancement in positioning the United Arab Emirates as a global energy and logistics powerhouse.
The new LNG and LPG hubs will be the first private-sector facilities of their kind in the UAE, capable of accommodating large, long-haul gas carriers. Together, these terminals are designed to enhance Khalifa Port’s role as a hub for low-carbon energy and petrochemical logistics, while directly supporting the nation’s Net Zero 2050 strategy.
Valued at over AED 30 billion (US$8 billion), the agreement spans 50 years and introduces multiple revenue streams for both partners. The project will also enable the port to refuel vessels with LNG and LPG—two of the fastest-growing alternative fuels in the maritime industry, thereby enhancing its sustainability credentials.
Strengthening Global Energy Connectivity
According to Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, “These agreements represent a transformative milestone for Khalifa Port and the UAE’s energy sector. Through our partnership with Nimex Terminals, we will equip Khalifa Port, one of the world’s fastest growing ports, with lower-impact fuel infrastructure that advances our commitment to a more sustainable future for the global ports and shipping industries. Guided by the wise leadership of the UAE, AD Ports Group remains dedicated to investing in a sustainable future that creates long-term value not only for our Group and our industry, but also for the people of Abu Dhabi and the UAE.”
Both facilities will leverage Khalifa Port’s modern infrastructure, multimodal connectivity, and strategic location between Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Its proximity to Khalifa Economic Zones – Abu Dhabi (KEZAD) further enhances its potential to support efficient, integrated supply chains. This connectivity ensures smooth trade operations and strengthens the UAE’s role in the global maritime network.
Azmat Mahmood, Executive Chairman of Nimex Terminals Ltd., said, “Nimex Terminals is proud to partner with AD Ports Group, one of the world’s leading enablers of trade, logistics, and industry, to advance the clean energy transition through our joint investment at Khalifa Port. The LNG and LPG infrastructure investments we have agreed upon will further enhance the attractiveness of one of the world’s fastest growing container ports, and reaffirm our commitment towards driving sustainable economic growth through the adoption of advanced, low-emission fuel technologies.’’
Sustainable Investments and Phased Development
Under the agreements, AD Ports Group will invest up to AED 1.3 billion (US$354 million) to develop port infrastructure, including dredging and jetty construction. Meanwhile, Nimex Terminals will contribute up to AED 2.6 billion (US$700 million) for advanced LNG and LPG storage tanks, regasification facilities, pipelines, flare structures, and firefighting systems.
The two terminals will be developed over a five-year period, ensuring steady progress while striking a balance between investment and operational readiness. The LNG terminal will cover an area of 130,000 m² and have a storage capacity of 400,000 cubic metres, while the LPG terminal will span 90,000 m² with a capacity of 280,000 cubic metres. Both hubs will manage import, export, and transshipment activities, primarily serving fast-growing Asian energy markets.
Initial operations are expected to commence by mid-2028, with full-scale LNG operations scheduled for 2031 and LPG operations for 2033. Beyond infrastructure, the initiative is projected to attract foreign investment, create high-value jobs, and stimulate supporting sectors, including shipping, logistics, and energy services. Overall, the development reflects the UAE’s long-term vision for sustainable industrial growth and global leadership in energy.
