Khalifa Port has reached a major milestone with the inauguration of CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, a state-of-the-art, eco-friendly facility that boosts container capacity by 23% to nearly 10 million TEUs annually. Combining advanced technology and sustainability, the new terminal enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a global trade hub and supports the UAE’s green economy goals.
This AED 3.1 billion (USD 845 million) container terminal is managed through a joint venture, with CMA CGM Group’s subsidiary CMA Terminals holding a 70% stake and Abu Dhabi Ports owning the remaining 30%.
His Highness was also present for the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Rodolphe Saadé and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi. This agreement focuses on advancing maritime training and education across the UAE and the GCC region. As part of the partnership, the CMA CGM Group will help train students from the Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy and assist with placing cadets on its flagship vessels.
The inauguration of CMA Terminals is a significant milestone for Khalifa Port, the flagship port of AD Ports Group. Since its opening in December 2012, this world-class container, roll-on/roll-off, and multipurpose facility has grown rapidly, transforming into one of the fastest-growing and most efficient commercial ports in the world.
The newly unveiled CMA Terminals showcases cutting-edge infrastructure designed with sustainability and efficiency in mind. It features automated gates, integrated systems, and shore-power capabilities that reduce vessel emissions. Solar panels power several areas, and the terminal is home to the region’s first net-zero carbon administration building, running entirely on renewable energy. This building earned the prestigious “Net Zero Building Project of the Year Award” at the 2022 MENA Green Building Awards.
The addition of the CMA CGM terminal boosts port’s container capacity by 23%, bringing the total to nearly 10 million TEUs annually. Ready for rail connectivity, this new terminal further solidifies port’s position as a major regional gateway. Designed with sustainability at its core, it supports the UAE’s circular economy goals by promoting construction recycling and reducing operational waste.
CMA Terminals serves as a modern, sustainably designed hub for CMA CGM to facilitate growing trade between Asia, Africa, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. CMA CGM, a global leader in decarbonizing the shipping industry, aims to achieve Net Zero Carbon by 2050, and this terminal aligns perfectly with their mission.
The facility combines advanced technology with sustainability. It is equipped with eight state-of-the-art Ship-to-Shore (STS) cranes and 20 Electric Rubber Tyred Gantry (e-RTG) cranes, further enhancing port’s status as one of the world’s most advanced commercial ports and a key driver of sustainable trade.
At the inauguration, His Excellency Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Chairman of AD Ports Group, expressed pride in welcoming His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, noting the terminal’s role in cementing the UAE’s reputation as a top investment destination and a key partner for global trade.
Also Read: SCZONE and Suez Steel Strike $120M Deal to Boost Adabiya Port
Rodolphe Saadé, Chairman and CEO of CMA CGM Group, highlighted the terminal’s strategic significance, calling it a step forward for Khalifa Port and a boost to regional shipping and logistics. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized the port’s enhanced global connectivity and contribution to local economic diversification.
The inauguration also marks the completion of Phase 1 of the CMA CGM terminal project, featuring an 800-meter quay wall, 18.5 meters of depth, and a capacity of 1.8 million TEUs. With these advancements, Khalifa Port now spans 6.3 square kilometers, with 41 quay cranes, 159 yard cranes, an 11.7-kilometer quay wall, and a 3.8-kilometer breakwater.
This new chapter firmly establishes Khalifa Port as a regional leader in trade, innovation, and sustainability, driving forward the UAE’s vision for economic growth and global connectivity.
Doha, Qatar: The Animal Transportation Association (ATA) will hold its annual conference in Doha, Qatar, from 16-19 February, 2025 with Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading air cargo carrier, as host airline.
This prestigious event will bring together industry leaders, experts, and stakeholders from around the globe to discuss the latest advancements and best practices in the field of animal transport. Known for its commitment to animal transport welfare, excellence and innovation, Qatar Airways Cargo will play a pivotal role in facilitating the event and ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees.
The ATA Conference 2025 will feature a comprehensive program, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops. Topics will cover a wide range of issues, from animal welfare and regulatory compliance to technological innovations and sustainability in animal transport.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with peers and participate in exclusive tours and social events showcasing the rich culture and hospitality of Qatar.
“The globalization of markets has significantly increased the demand for animal transportation services. The ATA Conference 2025 allows members from across the globe to come together to be educated on the complex issues our industry faces,” said Sean Harding, ATA president.
“We are thrilled to host the ATA Conference 2025 in Doha,” said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo. “This event underscores our dedication to advancing the standards of animal transport and providing a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration within the industry.”
Registration for the ATA Conference 2025 is now open. For more information, visit the ATA website or contact Kyle Wieskus at kyle@animaltransportationassociation.org
Dubai, UAE: The International animal welfare charity, The Donkey Sanctuary, has joined forces with Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, to highlight the risks posed by the transportation of donkey skins in air cargo. Emirates has already implemented a ban on the carriage of donkey hides.
Working together they have co-created the Aviation Risk and Threat Assessment operational guide to highlight the risks posed by the donkey skin trade and its association with serious and organized criminal activity.
According to The Donkey Sanctuary’s latest figures, six million donkeys are killed for their skins each year, the majority in Africa. These skins are then exported across the world, by ship and by air, before being used to make traditional medicine and remedies.
In research by The Donkey Sanctuary and the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School and Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU), significant evidence exposed the link between the movement of donkey skins with other illegal wildlife trafficking and organized crime. The unregulated and unhygienic skin trade also poses a serious threat to global biosecurity.
In February this year, African Heads of State endorsed a continent-wide moratorium on the slaughter of donkeys for their skins at the 37th African Union (AU) Summit. Within days of the AU decision, Emirates extended its zero-tolerance policy on the carriage of banned species, hunting trophies and other associated products, to include donkey hides and parts.
Already a leader in efforts to combat the illegal wildlife trade, the airline has established stringent protocols including screening, spot checks during transit, in depth document verification, and confirming the authenticity of permits; in addition to providing education and training for its employees across cargo and passenger operations to identify and report smuggled wildlife.
The co-created factsheet will provide the wider aviation industry with critical knowledge in the fight against the donkey skin trade. The operational guidelines explain the biosecurity risk of smuggling inadequately processed donkey skins alongside legitimate cargo such as leather or textiles, for example. It also highlights concealment methods and crime convergence, where networks involved in the donkey skin trade may also be linked to organized crime such as wildlife and drug trafficking.
Marianne Steele, CEO of The Donkey Sanctuary, said: “This is another welcome step in the battle against the illegal trade in donkey skins within the transportation sector. All measures that shine a light on the inhumane trade in donkey skins are to be applauded, especially given its links to illegal wildlife trafficking and organised crime as well as the threat to human health for everyone involved at every stage in the process.”
Robert Fordree, Senior Vice President of Cargo Operations Worldwide, Emirates SkyCargo, said: “We are proud to bring our expertise in both air logistics and the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking to the preparation of these guidelines. In close collaboration with The Donkey Sanctuary, we have highlighted some of the ways bad actors can exploit the logistics network to transport illicit goods, while also suggesting operational initiatives that can be implemented across the aviation ecosystem to stop trafficking in its tracks. Our hope is that by working with likeminded partners, we can protect the world’s biodiversity for generations to come.”
Abu Dhabi, UAE: Etihad Engineering, the largest commercial aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services provider in the Middle East, has successfully completed its first 12-year check on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner for LOT Polish Airlines, the flag carrier of Poland.
This significant milestone further cements Etihad Engineering’s reputation in delivering industry-leading heavy maintenance solutions for major commercial Airbus and Boeing aircraft.
A 12-year check is the one of the most thorough heavy-maintenance checks an aircraft undergoes. More than 300 personnel worked on the check completing around 1600 routine and non-routine tasks in less than 60 days, using more than 500 tools and over 1100-part numbers.
Spanning several weeks, the check involved complete landing gear replacement, disassembly and reassembly of critical components, in-depth structural inspections and system overhauls, including avionics, hydraulics, and engines.
Daniel Hoffmann, CEO of Etihad Engineering, said: “A 12-year check on the Boeing 787 requires extraordinary precision, planning, and execution. The successful delivery of our first B787 12-year check underscores the expertise and diligence of the Etihad Engineering team in carrying out extensive and complex aircraft maintenance projects. We are honoured by the trust that LOT Polish Airlines has placed in us and remain committed to delivering the highest standards of quality and safety to all our customers
from around the world.”
Wiktor Radoń, Engineering Director of LOT Polish Airlines, commented: “At LOT Polish Airlines, safety and reliability are at the core of our operations. We have a long-standing relationship with Etihad Engineering, and their performance on this first 12-year check on our B787 has exceeded our expectations. Their technical expertise and commitment to excellence assure us that our fleet is in the best hands.”
The aircraft was the first in a series of LOT Polish B787s scheduled for 12-year checks. The next input of the program is now undergoing heavy maintenance at Etihad Engineering’s state-of-the-art MRO facility in Abu Dhabi.
Big developments are underway at Adabiya Port! Mr. Waleid Gamal El-Dien, Chairman of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE), and Mr. Rafik Boulos Doss, Vice President and Managing Director of Suez Steel Company S.A.E., have signed a landmark agreement that’s set to transform the port’s capabilities.
The deal, which involves a $120 million investment, grants Suez Steel a 30,000-square-meter concession area within Adabiya Port. As part of the agreement, Suez Steel will operate and maintain Berths 4 and 5, which span 650 meters in length and have a depth of 17 meters. Additionally, the company will manage a specialized yard for the storage and handling of dry bulk goods and key materials for the iron and steel industries.
According to the press release, this partnership marks a significant step forward in leveraging Adabiya Port’s strategic location at the southern entrance of the Suez Canal. Positioned as a vital link between Asia and Africa, the port is set to become an even bigger player in global trade and supply chains.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, SCZONE Chairman Eng. Waleid Gamal El-Dien highlighted the economic zone’s ongoing efforts to enhance its ports and industrial zones. “Our goal is to fully capitalize on SCZONE’s unique location on the Red and Mediterranean Seas,” he said. “By integrating ports, industrial areas, and logistics zones, we aim to support global supply chains and foster economic growth across multiple sectors. Partnerships like this are crucial to realizing Egypt’s Vision 2030, which positions our ports as global trade hubs.”
Mr. Rafik Boulos Doss of Suez Steel shared his enthusiasm for the collaboration, pointing out the benefits it brings to both the company and the region. “This agreement will allow us to handle up to 5 million tons of dry bulk cargo annually in the first phase, with plans to double that capacity to 10 million tons within five years,” he explained. “This growth will not only enhance our operations but also elevate Adabiya Port as a leading hub for the steel industry and other key sectors.”
Adabiya Port is already one of the Red Sea’s most significant ports for handling dry and liquid bulk cargo, managing around 7 million tons annually. However, ongoing upgrades are set to make it even more capable. The port is expanding its berthing facilities, with plans to accommodate vessels up to 300 meters long and with drafts of 17 meters. New infrastructure will also make it possible to handle oversized and heavy cargo, enhancing its role in Egypt’s trade and logistics landscape.
With this strategic partnership between SCZONE and Suez Steel, Adabiya Port is poised for a bright future, solidifying its status as a key player in regional and international trade.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Dubai Airports, operator of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), marked the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad with celebrations honoring the nation’s Founding Fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
Guided by the national theme ‘Zayed and Rashid’, an initiative by Brand Dubai, this year’s events paid tribute to the visionary leaders whose enduring legacy continues to inspire progress.
DXB guests experienced the essence of Eid Al Etihad through the performances of traditional Al Ayala and Al Harbia bands. Modhesh and Dana, beloved symbols of Dubai’s dynamic spirit brought joyful moments for families and children during their travels. Arriving guests are welcomed with a unique commemorative stamp in their passports—a symbolic keepsake to honor the occasion and their journey through the world’s busiest international airport.
His Excellency Jamal Al Hai, Deputy CEO of Dubai Airports, said: “This year’s Eid Al Etihad programme honors the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, whose legacy continues to guide the UAE’s ambition. Dubai Airports is privileged to connect the world to the UAE’s cultural essence, where traditions inspire innovation, and heritage bridges the past and the future.”
The commemoration extended to Dubai Airports’ employees and stakeholders, offering an opportunity to connect with the UAE’s cultural heritage.
In the presence of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, the airport community participated in a series of interactive activities as a live national band created a festive atmosphere and traditional Emirati food offered a true taste of local culture. Highlights included a hands-on pearl-harvesting activity, henna art, cultural quizzes, and craft-making sessions curated in collaboration with the Dubai Airports Youth Council and the Irthi Council, providing a creative and meaningful exploration of the nation’s rich history.
Aligned with Dubai’s vision of inclusivity, the celebrations featured a local coffee pop-up managed by people of determination, sharing an important aspect of Arabian hospitality. Additionally, an exclusive retail showcase highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of young Emiratis and provided a platform for innovation and creativity that mirrors the UAE’s forward-thinking vision.
Dubai, UAE: Dubai Customs marked the UAE’s 53rd Eid Al Etihad (Union Day) on 28 November 2024, with celebrations held at its headquarters in Port Rashid and across its customs centers.
The festivities reflected a sense of pride and national spirit, honoring the remarkable achievements of the UAE since its founding. The event featured a rich program of activities that embodied the essence of unity and promoted national identity, attended by a large number of employees and customers.
The celebrations included traditional and artistic performances, along with engaging competitions that showcased the UAE’s rich cultural diversity. Craft workshops were also organized, such as planting the symbolic Ghaf tree and pottery making.
Employees received unique gifts, including pearls through a traditional oyster opening activity. Participants also collaborated on completing a collective art piece featuring portraits of the founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid.
A special photography corner hosted a photo-matching contest, while a heritage museum displayed a collection of historical artefacts, adding a distinctive touch to the occasion. The celebration also featured an array of Emirati traditional dishes, including live cooking and authentic sweets.
Eid Al Etihad is not merely an occasion for celebration but a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey of the UAE, laid by its founding fathers, which has led to unparalleled achievements across all sectors. As a key player in the UAE’s governmental framework, Dubai Customs remains committed to contributing to a sustainable future by driving economic growth while safeguarding the community
through its vital role in border and customs security.
Dubai Customs also reaffirms its dedication to supporting the visionary leadership’s ambitions for a progressive and sustainable nation. Eid Al Etihad celebration embodies the highest values of unity and giving, honoring the legacy of the founding leaders.
It stands as a renewed commitment to teamwork, national service, and continuing achievements that position the UAE among the world’s leading nations.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates: Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, Founding and Executive Chairman of MEBAA – the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association, and Timothy Hawes, Managing Director of Informa Markets, recently shared exciting updates on new features and expected attendance for the upcoming MEBAA Show 2024.
Ali Ahmed Alnaqbi, Founding and Executive Chairman of MEBAA – the Middle East & North Africa Business Aviation Association, said: “With just a few weeks to go until this year’s MEBAA Show, the 10th edition marks a key opportunity to reflect on the remarkable evolution of the industry since the show’s inception almost two decades ago. It will also set the stage for the future, acting as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas that drive the industry forward.
“The business aviation sector continues to experience significant growth, fueled by rising demand for flexible travel solutions and technological advancements. In our region, the influx of high-net-worth-individuals, its strategic location, investments in infrastructure and rising number of business jet movements and deliveries are helping the Middle East maintain its position as one of the fastest-growing markets globally. Through the MEBAA Show, we are proud to provide a platform that supports this growth, offering strategic insights, fostering meaningful connections, and showcasing the latest aircraft, products, and solutions. This year’s event reaffirms the region’s leadership in the global business aviation landscape and its role as a hub for innovation and excellence.”
Tim Hawes, Managing Director of Informa Markets, said: “As we celebrate the milestone 10th edition of the MEBAA Show, we are proud to witness its evolution into a premier global platform that drives progress and innovation in business aviation. This year’s event promises to set new benchmarks, with an expanded conference agenda and cutting-edge features like the new Advanced Air Mobility Pavilion, Startup Hub, and the Luxury Boulevard, which will each highlight the latest advancements in technology and their transformative impact on the industry.
“With over 145 exhibitors this year and increasing interest from international audiences, we’re seeing a record number of new participants as they recognize the value of the MEBAA Show has on shaping the future of the sector. The event will showcase the latest advancements in business aviation and foster invaluable connections. BizAv Talks will also bring together over 55 top executive and thought leaders to facilitate strategic discussions on sustainability, advanced air mobility, and future trends shaping the industry. We are excited to welcome the global business aviation community to Dubai, a city that continues to set the standard as a hub for excellence and innovation.”
As the foremost business aviation platform in the Middle East and North Africa, the 10th edition of the MEBAA Show will bring together global leaders, innovators, and decision-makers to discuss key themes including sustainability, business aviation technologies and future trends that will shape the industry.
With a refreshed agenda ready to foster high-level discussions and expanded features with innovative concepts to advance the sector, many industry leaders and exhibitors will be attending the show for the first time. This year the show is set to welcome more than 145 exhibitors and more than 10,000 visitors from 95 countries.
The static display remains a key feature at the show. Leading manufacturers including Airbus, Boeing Business Jets, Bombardier, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Textron, RoyalJet, Qatar Executive, VISTA, Falcon, Comlux, Aloula Aviation and more are ready to showcase their cutting-edge aircraft and highlight their innovative capabilities.
New features for this year include the Advanced Air Mobility Pavilion and the Startup Hub, a dedicated platform for startups to showcase cutting-edge technologies impacting the business aviation industry, as well as the Luxury Boulevard, sponsored by Falcon, which will provide an exclusive, prime stage for high-net-worth-individuals (HNWIs) and luxury clientele to engage with world-class brands and aircraft.
The returning BizAv Talks will welcome more than 55 top executives and innovators from across the globe to shape the strategic direction of business aviation. Meanwhile, networking will be taken to new heights with the Expanded networking opportunities including the Operators Programme, sponsored by Saudia Private Aviation (SPA), and a dedicated networking app, MEBAA Connect, with AI-powered matchmaking, personalised networking, real-time updates, and live session check-ins to ensure MEBAA Show 2024 is a platform to foster crucial connections and drive innovation.
The NextGen programme also aims to bring more than 500 students to the show, providing them with valuable insights into various aspects of the industry to help inspire the next generation of talent.
To be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, the MEBAA Show 2024 will take place at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC), from 10-12 December.
Istanbul, Turkiye: Turkish Technic, a leading provider of maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, has recently signed two significant agreements with SunExpress Airlines, a joint venture of Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa.
The first agreement encompasses comprehensive Component Pool support, granting SunExpress access to Turkish Technic’s extensive inventory and tailored component solutions. This service will cover both the Boeing 737NG and Boeing 737MAX fleets, ensuring optimal component availability and minimizing aircraft downtime.
Additionally, a second agreement will cover the complete landing gear overhaul and spare operations for SunExpress’ Boeing 737NG fleet. Together with these comprehensive agreements, Turkish Technic supports the operational continuity and fleet readiness of SunExpress, while SunExpress further reinforces its ability to deliver punctual and reliable services to its customers.
Regarding the agreements Mikail Akbulut, CEO and Board Member of Turkish Technic, remarked: “As our long-standing partnership thrives with new agreements, we are pleased to enhance SunExpress’ operational efficiency through our comprehensive component services. These agreements ensure seamless operations for SunExpress’ fleet. We are always delighted to strengthen and expand our long-standing collaboration with SunExpress. Turkish Technic remains committed to delivering world-class MRO solutions, driving operational excellence, and fostering long-lasting business partnerships within the aviation industry.”
Commenting on the continuation of the partnership, Max Kownatzki, CEO of SunExpress, expressed: “Our well-established collaboration with Turkish Technic reflects our commitment to safety and efficiency. The component support and landing gear maintenance services will help us maintain our operational reliability and performance at the highest standards. We believe that our partnership will continue to enhance our operational excellence, ensuring safe and reliable services for our customers.”
With a partnership spanning over decades, Turkish Technic has provided base maintenance, component pool support, and landing gear services to SunExpress. These new agreements not only underscore the enduring collaboration but also reflect Turkish Technic’s commitment to delivering superior MRO services tailored to the evolving needs of its business partners.
Geneva, Switzerland: The International Air Transport Association (IATA) says it will offer digital currencies in the financial settlement systems it operates for the aviation industry.
“Digitalization impacts many aspects of our daily lives, including the currency we use. With the increasing use of digital currencies, it is imperative that IATA’s industry financial settlement systems adapt to support the needs of those using our services,” said Muhammad Albakri, IATA’s Senior Vice President for Financial Settlement and Distribution Services.
The first digital currency to be offered is the digital Renminbi, which will be available in the China Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) by the end of 2024. “China is one of the most advanced countries in the world in the adoption of digital currency. Recognizing the trend, IATA’s China Airline Committee requested for the digital Renminbi to be included in the BSP. This is an important development and IATA will accommodate the digital Renminbi by year-end,” said Albakri.
IATA is also examining the potential to offer other digital currencies in its settlement systems based on the needs and requirements of the industry. “The experience gained in introducing the digital Renminbi will help IATA in onboarding other digital currencies in the future,” said Albakri.
Additional Currency in ICCS
In July 2024, IATA added the Renminbi Offshore (CNH) currency to its IATA Currency Clearance Service (ICCS), bringing the total number of currencies handled by the service to 74. The ICCS is IATA’s global cash management system. It enables airlines’ treasurers to repatriate their sales funds worldwide to their preferred nominated currencies. This results in an accelerated and improved working capital management and reduced foreign exchange risks.
“At the heart of the integration of the digital Renminbi and all other settlement system work is a need to serve the customer and adapt to their behavioral changes in payment methods. Payment should be seamless. A customer shouldn’t be frustrated by not having their payment method of choice available. Nor should airlines lose out on deriving the proper value from their ticket sales,” said Albakri.
Technology has made the world smaller and faster.Real time communication with people from all over the world at different time zones through phones and gadgets
