The last few decades have seen development proceed in Abu Dhabi at a frantic pace. The latest is work on new marina and ferry developments across the city. Run by Abu Dhabi Maritime and operating under AD Ports Group, the new development is taking place in close collaboration with the Department of Municipalities and Transport. It is part of the city’s ongoing strategy to acquire world-class infrastructure and boost its reputation as a global maritime and trading hub.
Fast track to development
The work is scheduled to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2022 and includes marina facilities and ferry terminals. An additional marina and ferry station project will be developed at Jebel Dhanna which is expected to be ready for the third quarter of 2023, according to the statement from AD Ports Group.
Among the facilities included will be wet and dry berths, wider slipways capable of simultaneous vessel launches and retrievals, upgraded docking facilities and new food and retail outlets. Once completed, the project is expected to raise the number of marina berths by 246. In addition to this, Abu Dhabi Maritime has also announced plans to reinforce the existing ferry service with five additional state-of-the-art vessels.
“As a global facilitator of trade, logistics, and industry, we are well-positioned to lead the development of ultra-modern maritime infrastructure within our emirate,” says AD Ports Managing Director and Group CEO Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi. “Upon completion, these milestone developments will undoubtedly further Abu Dhabi’s unique maritime offering for those who come to enjoy our islands, waterways and shores, and for those who call them their home.”
A global trade and maritime centre
Five brand-new vessels will also be added to the existing ferry fleet which will improve services to Al Aliah and the Dalma islands and boost passenger capacity by 70% with vehicle capacity rising by 40%. In-keeping with their goal of becoming more environmentally friendly, the new ferry designs will be faster and more fuel efficient, reducing CO2 emissions by a quarter.
Abu Dhabi Maritime Managing Director Captain Saif Al Mheiri added: “The development of the terminals is a testament to our commitment to continue advancing our maritime assets and facilities, enhance the experience for residents and visitors, as well as promote Abu Dhabi as a premier global trade and maritime centre.”
The new maritime developments are part of Abu Dhabi’s vision to expand infrastructure in a way which boosts its capacity, facilitates tourism, and enhances the city’s reputation as a world-wide trade and tourism destination. It comes at a time when the Emirate’s economy is surging with growth predicted to reach 8% and 6% for the next two years as it continues its rapid recovery from the pandemic.
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