ABU DHABI, 7 June 2007 — The Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC), DP World and Economic Zones World (EZW) signed on Saturday cooperation agreements which will see DP World operating the Khalifa Port and EZW operating the Free Trade and Logistics Zone located in Taweelah, Abu Dhabi. The accords, which mark the first step toward a joint venture, were signed by the three companies at a special event held in Abu Dhabi to mark the first anniversary of Abu Dhabi Terminals.
One of the largest marine terminal operators in the world, DP World currently has a management services agreement for Mina Zayed in Abu Dhabi. Involvement with Khalifa Port will represent the next stage in its growing relationship with ADPC. EZW, one of the largest developers and operators of free zones in the world, was expected to manage an initial 25-km2 trade and logistics free zone within the larger industrial zone in Taweelah, to be located halfway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Nasser Al-Sowaidi, chairman of Abu Dhabi Ports Company, said: “The signing of this agreement with DP World and Economic Zones World is yet another step in the drive towards greater cooperation and integration between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It is also another example of how we are continuing to implement rapidly the vision of creating a world-class port and zones facilities at Taweelah. It demonstrates our commitment to partner with the best-in-class entities to develop the port area and to serve its ever-growing demand.