AD Ports Group and Vale to establish Middle East's first Valemax port in Khalifa

AD Ports Group, based in Abu Dhabi, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Vale, the world's largest producer of iron ore and nickel, to establish a mega hub at Khalifa Port. The hub aims to support the development of industrial complexes that manufacture low-carbon products for the steelmaking industry, catering to both local and international markets.

The planned facility will enable the arrival of massive Valemax vessels, capable of handling up to 50 million tonnes of cargo annually, making it the first of its kind in the Middle East. AD Ports Group will be responsible for constructing and managing the necessary conveyor infrastructure to transport iron ore and finished goods to and from Khalifa Port.

The agreement between AD Ports Group and Vale also encompasses a maritime collaboration that will explore opportunities in managing and operating very large ore carriers (VLOCs), among other potential areas of partnership. While AD Ports Group already owns a significant amount of dry bulk tonnage, this partnership will expand its presence in the valemax class.