AD Ports Group and Columbia Group have formed a joint venture to optimize third-party vessel operations. The venture will also enhance the operations of AD Ports Group’s ocean-going fleet through state-of-the-art fleet management systems.
The newly formed entity, Noatum – CSM Limited, combines Columbia Group’s expertise in advanced fleet management systems and AI-driven performance analytics. It also leverages AD Ports Group’s diverse fleet and extensive ship management experience, both globally and regionally. Also, by integrating ship management into AD Ports Group’s Maritime & Shipping Cluster service portfolio, this strategic alliance enhances its service offerings. It provides third parties with the benefits of a world-class ship management system and team.
The JV will benefit from immediate access to Columbia Group’s Performance Optimization Control Room (POCR). This advanced digital platform is designed to catalyze fleet performance enhancement, predictive maintenance, and regulatory compliance. This platform provides continuous live monitoring and comprehensive decision support tools to optimize voyages, speed, bunker usage, and emissions. The system will harness data from multiple vessels to empower informed decision-making and enhance operational and commercial performance.
Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, CEO – Maritime & Shipping Cluster, AD Ports Group, said: “This partnership symbolizes a pivotal advancement in maritime asset management, merging the strengths of Columbia Group and AD Ports Group. As we expand our capabilities, we are benefitting our clients by elevating quality and efficiency. We are committed to offering a holistic suite of services with exceptional operational competency and expertise, further fortifying our position as a global maritime service provider.”
Mark O’Neil, President and CEO – Columbia Group said: “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our shared vision to set new standards in maritime asset management. Combining Columbia’s global expertise with AD Ports Group’s strong presence in the Middle East will drive operational excellence and innovation in the region’s maritime sector. We look forward to building a sustainable and future-ready business together.”
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Strategically based in the UAE, the JV will support day-to-day management. It will also introduce comprehensive crew management, procurement, training, and other operational services to ensure best-in-class asset management practices. Noatum – CSM Limited will unlock a broad array of additional skills, capabilities and operational excellence for clients.
AD Ports Group, a leading facilitator of global trade, logistics, and industry, has signed a Foundation Agreement with SEMURG INVEST LLP (Semurg), the owner and developer of the Sarzha Multifunctional Marine Terminal at Kuryk Port, Kazakhstan.
The partnership has commenced constructing a greenfield grain terminal at Kuryk Port. Following the completion of phase one, this grain terminal will have the capacity to handle 570,000 tons of grain cargo per year. With the construction of phase two, the terminal’s capacity is set to expand further, reaching 1.5 million tons per year.
Sarzha Grain Terminal will see a total investment of just over USD 50 million over the two phases, with AD Ports Group contributing around USD 30 million.
Scheduled for completion in the second half of 2026, Sarzha Grain Terminal will enhance global food trade by connecting Kazakhstan to Europe via the Transcaspian International Transport Route and a network of sea and dry ports in Central Asia.
Abdulaziz Zayed Al-Shamsi, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group, said: “Our partnership with Semurg marks another key milestone in AD Ports Group’s Middle Corridor strategy and reinforces our commitment to global food security and the UAE’s National Strategy for Food Security. This investment demonstrates our Group’s dedication to expanding our presence in Central Asia, and in Kazakhstan in particular.”
Al-Shamsi further added, “Sarzha Grain Terminal will not only boost grain trade and handling at Kuryk Port but also, by leveraging modern technologies and sustainable practices, we aim to establish a resilient and reliable food supply chain to meet the growing demand of the global population. This project embodies our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and strategic growth.”
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Nurzhan Marabayev, General Director of SEMURG INVEST LLP, stated, “Our partnership with AD Ports Group boosts the Middle Corridor’s development and aligns with our commitment to the 2030 roadmap.” He added, “The project aims to diversify Kazakhstan’s export routes, enhance the Transcaspian route’s potential, and develop the Mangystau region’s economy.”
Announced in August 2023, AD Ports Group aims to boost global resource transport, connect regions, and foster economic growth.
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