BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 18. AD Ports Group has signed an agreement with France’s CMA CGM to expand their joint container terminal at Khalifa Port, less than a year after the facility opened in December 2024, Trend reports via AD Ports Group.
The partners will invest AED 420 million ($115 million) to increase capacity at CMA Terminals Khalifa Port by 50% to 2.7 million TEUs by early 2028. The terminal, owned 70% by CMA CGM and 30% by AD Ports Group, has seen stronger-than-expected demand, reaching full capacity within ten months of operations.
The expansion will extend the quay from 800 to 1,200 meters and enlarge the yard area by more than 40%. Additional upgrades will include enhanced utilities and new systems to support refrigerated containers.
AD Ports’ Ports Cluster CEO Saif Al Mazrouei said the project reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a global trade hub and the group’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships. CMA CGM executive vice president Christine Cabau said accelerating the second phase was necessary to meet demand and support regional commercial growth.
The announcement comes as Khalifa Port continues its rapid ascent in global rankings, reaching 39th place in Lloyd’s List of the Top 100 World Ports this year. AD Ports reported a 20% year-on-year rise in quarterly container throughput in Q3 2025, with the joint terminal nearing 1 million TEUs year-to-date.