Khalifa Port set to handle world's largest ships

dubai - EGA signs agreement with Abu Dhabi Ports to use capesize vessels for imports

Emirates Global Aluminium has signed a long-term port facility agreement with Abu Dhabi Ports to use some of the world's largest bulk cargo vessels to import raw materials through Khalifa Port. With this agreement, Abu Dhabi Ports will be able to develop the port to become the first in the Gulf capable of directly handling these massive ships.

Abu Dhabi Ports will fund and complete dredging and widening works to the Khalifa Port approach channel and basin, including EGA's berth. EGA plans to use large dry bulk ships to import raw materials without the need to transfer all or some of the cargo to smaller vessels outside the port, reducing long-term shipping costs and improving environmental performance.

The agreement was signed at EGA's headquarters in Al Taweelah (Kizad) by Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, and Abdulla Kalban, managing director and CEO of EGA.

The development at Khalifa Port is expected to lead to larger ships calling in to Abu Dhabi, creating new trade opportunities, supporting local industries and boosting the emirate's position as a global maritime trade hub.

EGA will use capesize vessels to ship bauxite ore, the feedstock for alumina refineries, from Guinea. Currently, EGA is constructing the UAE's first alumina refinery next to its aluminium smelter in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi. Upon achieving full production, the Al Taweelah alumina refinery will process five million tonnes of bauxite per annum.

- business@khaleejtimes.com