Abu Dhabi – Mubasher: Abu Dhabi Ports Company (AD Ports) partnered with Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment and Operation Group Company Limited (Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group)to establish a comprehensive automotive logistics ecosystem project.

The joint venture (JV) will connect Chinese manufacturing capabilities with Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and African markets through integrated terminal operations, dedicated fleet services, and multimodal transport solutions.

The agreement was signed at a ceremony marking the maiden voyage of UGR Zakher, the second LNG-powered vessel operated by United Global Ro-Ro (UGR), a JV between AD Ports and Erkport.

The two parties aim to develop Ro-Ro and automotive terminals at their hub locations, leveraging the established automotive sourcing of Ningbo Zhoushan Port and distribution capabilities of UGR. This will meet the growing demand for vehicle exports from China.

The plans also include using UGR as the designated Ro-Ro carrier, which has a specialized PCTC and Ro-Ro vessel fleet and operational expertise.

Meanwhile, UGR already operates Ro-Ro services linking China with terminals in the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean.

Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports, highlighted that this preliminary strategic partnership marks a defining moment in both sides' efforts to establish smart and connected automotive corridors across continents.

“With our fleet and global experience in the Ro-Ro segment complemented by UGR’s operations, we offer immediate vessel availability and operational excellence,” Al Shamisi stated.

He added: “With the introduction of our second LNG-powered vessel in the UGR fleet, it not only increases cargo capacity for our customers but also demonstrates our commitment to investing in a fleet that supports global decarbonization.”

Tao Chengbo, Chairman of Ningbo Zhoushan Port Group, commented: “Leveraging the cooperation in car roll-on/roll-off services, we will further expand our business areas, enhance comprehensive cooperation in logistics, warehousing, green energy, and talent exchange, and inject strong momentum into the coordinated development of the China-Arab Economic Corridor.”

UGR Zakher, with a capacity of 7,000 car equivalent units (CEUs), mirrors the attributes of sister ship, UGR Al Samha, which was acquired earlier this year.

The two vessels boast the same lower greenhouse gas emissions thanks to the use of LNG, alongside improved energy and operational efficiencies.

 In June, AD Ports penned three heads of terms (HoTs) with Bahrain-based Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY)to develop joint maritime and ports projects.

Regarding the financial performance,  the UAE-based group recorded 16% year-on-year (YoY) higher net profits at AED 463.50 million in the first quarter (Q1) of 2025.