Poto Credit : WAM
AD Ports Group has launched trial operations at the new Noatum Ports Safaga Terminal in Egypt, marking a significant milestone ahead of the terminal’s full commercial launch later this year.
The trial phase was inaugurated during a site visit by Egypt’s Minister of Transport, Lieutenant-General Engineer Kamel El Wazir, and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group. Senior officials reviewed the terminal’s operational systems and readiness procedures to ensure services meet international standards.
The project is being developed under a 30-year concession agreement signed in 2023 between AD Ports Group and Egypt’s Red Sea Ports Authority. The multipurpose terminal is expected to strengthen maritime trade and logistics capabilities in the region while supporting economic development across Upper Egypt.
Speaking during the visit, El Wazir highlighted the importance of the partnership with AD Ports Group, noting that the terminal will serve as a key gateway for the Golden Triangle Economic Zone and support mining, industrial, logistics, warehousing, processing, and assembly activities. He added that improved connectivity through Safaga Port will boost import and export operations and attract new investments to the region.
Al Shamisi described Egypt as one of AD Ports Group’s most important international markets and a strategic trade hub within the group’s global network. He said the Safaga Terminal will enhance connectivity along the Red Sea and strengthen trade links between the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and South America.
Covering approximately 810,000 square metres, the terminal features a 1,000-metre quay wall and is designed to handle up to 450,000 TEUs annually. It will also accommodate 5 million tonnes of dry bulk and general cargo, 1 million tonnes of liquid bulk cargo, and 50,000 car equivalent units of Ro-Ro cargo.
The facility is set to become the first internationally operated port terminal in Upper Egypt, improving access to global shipping routes and reinforcing Egypt’s position as a regional logistics hub.
The launch forms part of AD Ports Group’s wider expansion strategy in Egypt. The company recently introduced new ship-to-shore and rubber-tyred gantry cranes at Safaga, expanded cruise operations across Egyptian ports, and continues developing the KEZAD East Port Said Industrial and Logistics Park. In addition, AD Ports Group increased its investment in Egypt’s maritime sector through its stake acquisition in Alexandria Container & Cargo Handling Company.
