Khalifa Port has reached a new milestone with the inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, a facility featuring an 800-meter quay wall, 18.5-meter depth, and eight advanced Ship-to-Shore cranes.
Developed through a joint venture between CMA CGM Group’s subsidiary CMA Terminals (70%) and Abu Dhabi Ports (30%), the AED 3.1 billion (USD 845 million) facility enhances the port’s capacity by 23%, bringing its annual container handling capability to nearly 10 million TEUs.
This terminal incorporates advanced infrastructure such as automated gates, electric cranes, and shore-power systems to limit emissions. Sustainability is central to the facility’s design, with features like solar-powered operations, a net zero carbon administration building, and systems aligned with the UAE’s circular economy goals. Khalifa Port now spans 6.3 square kilometers and is positioned as a key hub connecting Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
The new terminal was inaugurated by Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
During the event, Sheikh Khaled highlighted the project’s role in driving sustainable economic development, attracting global investment, and reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading trade and logistics hub. He was briefed on the terminal’s features by Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, and Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group.
Sheikh Khaled also witnessed the signing of an MoU to enhance maritime education and training in the UAE, underscoring the facility’s broader contributions to regional development.