AD Ports Group Establishes Consolidated Multimodal Inland Logistics Network to Strengthen UAE Industrial Supply Chains

AD Ports Group has officially launched a consolidated, multimodal inland logistics network designed to fortify UAE industrial supply chains. By integrating rail-linked dry ports and cargo depots, including the KEZAD Group’s Industry City of Abu Dhabi (ICAD), the initiative strategically positions Khalifa Port as a premier global trade hub. This expansion enhances connectivity between maritime freight and inland distribution, streamlining the movement of goods and optimizing terminal throughput for vessels calling at Abu Dhabi’s expanding maritime infrastructure.

The operational integration of these dry ports aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s FAL Convention, specifically regarding the facilitation of international maritime traffic through standardized digital documentation and efficient port-to-hinterland cargo flows. Furthermore, compliance with the ISPS Code remains critical as these inland facilities interface directly with port security zones. For fleet managers and compliance departments, this multimodal network necessitates stricter adherence to customs clearance protocols and cargo manifest accuracy, ensuring that the transition from vessel to rail remains compliant with international safety and security standards.

For masters and navigating officers, this development means increased precision in vessel arrival scheduling and cargo discharge coordination. Navigating officers must now account for tighter synchronization between port terminal operations and inland rail logistics to avoid demurrage. Masters should ensure that all electronic cargo documentation is updated to reflect these new multimodal transit routes, as efficient port turnaround times will increasingly depend on the seamless handover of goods to the newly established inland rail-linked network.