AD Ports Group Launches Operations in Angola
Abu Dhabi based AD Ports Group (www.ADPortsGroup.com), a leading enabler of global trade, logistics, and industry (ADX: ADPORTS), has officially commenced the long-term management and development of a major multipurpose terminal and an associated logistics business in Luanda, Angola. This initiative, undertaken in collaboration with local partners, marks a significant step in the Group’s expansion across sub-Saharan Africa.
In partnership with Angolan joint venture entities Unicargas and Multiparques, AD Ports Group has begun operations at Noatum Ports Luanda Terminal, situated in Angola’s largest port. The Port of Luanda processes approximately 76% of the nation’s container and general cargo, while also serving as a key maritime gateway for landlocked neighbors, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia.
AD Ports Group holds an 81% stake in the multipurpose terminal venture with Unicargas and Multiparques, as well as a 90% stake in the logistics venture with Unicargas.
Under a 20-year concession agreement with the Luanda Port Authority, signed in April 2024, AD Ports Group has committed to investing approximately USD 250 million by 2026 to modernize the terminal and develop Noatum Unicargas Logistics. This joint venture will provide integrated logistics, transport, and freight forwarding services for local, regional, and international clients.
With the official launch of terminal operations today, Noatum Unicargas Logistics has commenced trading. The company is making substantial investments in new trucks and systems while integrating with the Noatum Logistics global network, enhancing Angola’s connectivity to international markets and stimulating investment-driven economic growth.
Depending on market demand, AD Ports Group’s total investment could rise to USD 380 million over the concession’s lifespan, which may be extended by an additional 10 years.
In late 2024, AD Ports Group signed two agreements with the Angolan government, securing significant tax and financial incentives for its operating subsidiaries in the country.
These strategic investments are expected to generate thousands of local jobs, both directly and indirectly, while facilitating workforce training and skill development. The modernization plans also include the implementation of advanced equipment and technology solutions to support environmentally sustainable operations and reduce carbon emissions.
Mohamed Eidha Al Menhali, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group, stated: "With the planned enhancements to Luanda’s multipurpose port terminal and the establishment of a comprehensive logistics and freight forwarding business, AD Ports Group is strategically positioned to capitalize on Angola’s growing container volumes, projected to increase by an average of 3.3% annually over the next decade. This substantial investment, aligned with the vision of our wise leadership, will strengthen Angola’s economic ties with the UAE while creating jobs and fostering economic prosperity for its citizens."
His Excellency Ricardo Daniel Sandão Queirós Viegas D’Abreu, Angola’s Minister of Transport, remarked:
"The Port of Luanda is Angola’s primary maritime gateway and a vital hub for regional trade and economic development. Our strategic partnership with AD Ports Group is part of a broader initiative to transform the port into a state-of-the-art, multi-functional facility that will significantly enhance our logistical capabilities and drive economic progress across central and western Africa. This collaboration represents a crucial milestone in our mission to modernize infrastructure, expand global trade access, and secure a prosperous future for Angola and its partners."
He further emphasized the Angolan government’s commitment to supporting AD Ports Group’s investment, ensuring its successful implementation for all stakeholders involved.
The transfer of business assets and operational control took place seamlessly, without any disruption to terminal activities. AD Ports Group and its partners are dedicated to enhancing terminal efficiency and performance while prioritizing health and safety through the implementation of a best-in-class Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) program.
Under AD Ports Group’s leadership, the Luanda terminal will undergo extensive upgrades, transforming it into a modern general cargo, container, and roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) facility. With a depth of 16 meters, it will be the only terminal in the Port of Luanda capable of accommodating Super Post-Panamax vessels of up to 14,000 TEUs (Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units). The terminal’s 192,000 sqm area will be optimized for high-density container handling and equipped with cutting-edge technology and IT systems.
Over the past three years, AD Ports Group has expanded its footprint in Africa, committing over USD 800 million in maritime, shipping, ports, and logistics projects across Egypt, the Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Angola.
The Group’s entry into Angola follows the signing of a 2023 framework agreement with the Angolan government to explore collaboration in transportation and maritime infrastructure.
By the third quarter of 2026, new container handling equipment will be installed, significantly increasing container capacity from 25,000 TEUs to 350,000 TEUs and Ro-Ro volumes to over 40,000 vehicles. On September 11, 2024, AD Ports Group awarded contracts to Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Co. Ltd (ZPMC), a leading port machinery manufacturer, to supply three Super Post-Panamax STS cranes and eight hybrid Rubber-Tyred Gantry (RTG) cranes for the Luanda terminal.
Super Post-Panamax STS cranes are the industry’s largest, capable of handling 21 container rows and reaching up to 60 meters. The hybrid RTG cranes are designed to reduce diesel consumption by up to 60%, translating to annual savings of one million liters of fuel and cutting carbon emissions by 5,000 metric tonnes.
In the logistics sector, Noatum Unicargas Logistics is investing in new machinery, reefer and flatbed trucks, and upgrading IT systems to fully integrate with Noatum Logistics’ digital ecosystem. This will provide end-to-end supply chain visibility and enhanced operational efficiency, further strengthening Angola’s position in global trade
