AD Ports bolsters Bahrain ties with shipyard and port initiatives

Abu Dhabi-based ports and logistics giant AD Ports Group has signed three agreements with Bahrain’s Arab Shipbuilding & Repair Yard Company (ASRY) designed to boost shipbuilding, drydocking, and port management capabilities across the Gulf region and beyond.

The first agreement involves the establishment of a joint venture focused on enhancing drydocking and shipbuilding infrastructure within the Gulf Cooperation Council, while also exploring growth opportunities in other international markets.

The duo has also signed a letter of intent with India’s marine services, ports, logistics, and technology group JM Baxi on creating green ship recycling facilities. AD Ports said JM BAXI is a strong advocate for sustainable practices in this area and supports the adoption of the Hong Kong Convention.

Last year, ASRY became part of a memorandum of understanding with Danish shipping and logistics group Maersk, SULB Company, and APM Terminals Bahrain to evaluate and establish a ship recycling initiative in Bahrain. The deal envisioned the kingdom’s transport and telecommunications ministry and the ministry of industry and commerce providing regulatory support to ASRY for equipping the yard and docks for the ship recycling process.

The third agreement between AD Ports Group and ASRY involves the formation of a joint working group to identify and pursue investment opportunities in ports and terminals, aiming to bolster the region’s maritime infrastructure through a shared strategic framework.

These latest developments build on the earlier formation of ASRY Marine, a joint venture between ASRY and Noatum Maritime, to deliver integrated marine services in Bahrain.

“Following the successful formation of our recent joint venture with ASRY, we look forward to deepening our collaboration across the maritime realm. We have already developed strong working ties, and this agreement opens the door to create more value and growth across our operations. Exploring opportunities to establish green ship recycling facilities is also very important for us, ensuring that vessels are retired in a safe and environmentally responsible manner,” said Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, managing director and group CEO, AD Ports Group.