AD Ports Group to Develop $120M Industrial Zone in Egypt's Port Said

Abu Dhabi-based AD Ports Group has entered into a 50-year renewable agreement with Egypt's Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) to develop a 20-square-kilometer industrial and logistics zone east of Port Said. Abu Dhabi-based AD Ports Group has entered into a 50-year renewable agreement with Egypt's Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) to develop a 20-square-kilometer industrial and logistics zone east of Port Said. The project, named KEZAD East Port Said, aims to enhance Egypt's role in global trade by leveraging its strategic location at the northern entrance of the Suez Canal.

The initial phase of the project covers 2.8 square kilometers and is set to commence by the end of 2025. AD Ports Group has committed $120 million for market and technical studies, as well as infrastructure development over the next three years. The zone will feature a 1.5-kilometer quay, with plans for a multipurpose cargo terminal to facilitate diverse maritime activities.

The agreement was signed in Cairo, witnessed by Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan Al Jaber, among other officials. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, stated that the project underscores the strong economic ties between the UAE and Egypt and reflects the company's commitment to investing in Egypt's trade and industrial ecosystem.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said: “KEZAD East Port Said is a milestone that highlights the strong economic relations between the UAE and Egypt. In line with the vision of our wise leadership, this strategic cooperation is another sign of our Group’s growing focus on Egypt, where we continue to enhance and develop our integrated trade, transport, and industrial ecosystem, offering clients unparalleled end-to-end solutions and services. This infrastructure investment will provide a long-term source of economic growth for Egypt, while enhancing the Suez Canal role in promoting and supporting the East-West trade corridor.”

Mr. Waleid Gamal El Dien, Chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone, said: “The launch of this project in the East Port Said Industrial Zone represents an important strategic step that reaffirms the depth of the strong fraternal relations and the growing strategic partnership between the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United Arab Emirates, as well as the prominent position held by SCZONE as a pivotal global trade hub for industrial and logistics activities. This project enhances SCZONE’s ongoing efforts to support global supply chains by providing a competitive and integrated investment environment, underpinned by advanced infrastructure, and a unique geographic location, connecting three continents via one of the world’s most vital maritime routes.”

AD Ports Group has been expanding its footprint in Egypt since 2022, acquiring stakes in maritime companies such as Transmar, TCI, and Safina B.V. The company has also secured long-term concessions to develop and operate cruise terminals at Red Sea ports including Safaga, Hurghada, Al Sokhna, and Sharm El-Sheikh, as well as a multipurpose port in Safaga and a Ro-Ro terminal in Al Sokhna.

The KEZAD East Port Said project is expected to attract international investments, boost exports, create employment opportunities, and facilitate technology transfer. It aligns with Egypt's vision to become a pivotal node in global logistics and manufacturing, enhancing the country's position in international supply chains.