Transforming Ajman Port: Dhs1 Billion Vision for Global Trade Hub
Ajman has taken a significant step towards becoming a major logistics and maritime center with a Dhs1 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement was signed between the Department of Port & Customs Ajman and Hutchison Ports, a globally renowned port investor and operator. This long-term partnership lays the groundwork for the comprehensive development of Ajman Port, aligning with a future-focused vision for infrastructure, trade, and logistics.
Sheikh Ammar Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Crown Prince of Ajman and Chairman of the Executive Council, attended the signing and expressed strong support. The MoU outlines a 15-year plan focused on efficiency, digital transformation, sustainability, and global competitiveness.
Strategic Alliance for Port Development
The MoU initiates a strong collaboration aimed at enhancing Ajman Port’s role in the UAE’s logistics sector. The Department and Hutchison Ports will jointly execute a development strategy based on international best practices. This will improve cargo handling, modernize operations, and make the port more attractive to global shipping lines.
Sheikh Ammar emphasized that this is more than an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a visionary move in line with Ajman’s Vision 2030. It supports Ajman’s goal of strengthening trade, attracting investment, and reinforcing food security and logistics.
Modern Infrastructure for Operational Efficiency
Under the MoU, a comprehensive plan will transform Ajman Port into a state-of-the-art logistics hub. The focus is on reducing cargo turnaround time, ensuring safety, and improving overall speed and performance.
The upgraded port will handle a broader range of shipping lines and cargo types. It aims to become a preferred destination for international logistics providers and shipping companies.
Digital transformation is a key component. Advanced technologies and AI systems will be used for tracking, safety management, and cargo logistics, making operations smarter and more efficient.
Supporting Ajman’s Vision 2030
Ajman Port’s expansion is part of the emirate’s Vision 2030. This vision seeks to build a diversified, innovation-driven economy. The development will streamline trade, enhance logistics capacity, and better connect Ajman to the global market.
Sheikh Ammar called the agreement a milestone reflecting Ajman’s aspirations. He highlighted that the emirate’s openness to investment is attracting strong partnerships.
The project also aims to build a self-sufficient trade ecosystem, focusing on sectors like food security and industrial supply chains.
Economic Ripple Effects Across Sectors
The port’s development is expected to boost several other sectors—transportation, warehousing, and supply chain management. As operations expand, they will create new jobs, investments, and business opportunities.
A key focus is also on training Emiratis. The initiative will equip local talent with advanced logistics skills to ensure sustainable, long-term local participation in port operations.
This move supports Ajman’s broader goal of balancing economic growth with inclusive development.
Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Infrastructure
Sustainability is at the heart of the development strategy. The plan includes integrating clean energy sources, energy-efficient equipment, and eco-friendly waste management.
Ajman Port’s green initiatives align with the UAE’s environmental goals. They reduce the port’s carbon footprint and attract environmentally responsible operators.
By focusing on sustainability, Ajman is building a logistics model that is both efficient and eco-conscious.
Visionary Leadership Driving Progress
Ajman’s leadership, especially Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi and Crown Prince Sheikh Ammar, has prioritized infrastructure as key to economic diversification. Their vision supports partnerships that bring in technology, investment, and expertise.
Sheikh Dr Mohammed Bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Department, stated that the MoU reflects the leadership’s goal of creating an internationally competitive port. He noted that Hutchison Ports, present in Ajman since 2011, has been a reliable partner.
The new agreement builds on this trust, focusing on scalability, digitalization, and world-class service delivery.
Enhancing Ajman’s Regional Role
Ajman Port’s transformation is set against the backdrop of a competitive UAE port network. With ports like Jebel Ali and Khalifa Port nearby, Ajman is positioning itself as a strategic alternative.
Its geographic location offers natural advantages. The development will strengthen Ajman’s link in the regional transport network and attract global shipping lines.
Increased competitiveness will stimulate investment in logistics parks and industrial zones, expanding Ajman’s economic influence.
Connecting to Global Trade Corridors
The MoU with Hutchison Ports connects Ajman to a broader global logistics network. Hutchison’s presence across the Middle East and Africa offers direct access to cross-border trade corridors.
This development comes as Gulf countries are upgrading trade infrastructure. Ajman is well-positioned to benefit from these trends by offering reliable, efficient logistics services.
It also supports national efforts to boost the UAE’s global logistics standing.
A Future Anchored in Innovation
The 15-year development plan will unfold in phases, involving stakeholders and ongoing monitoring. The focus will remain on innovation, training, and sustainability.
Ajman Port’s transformation goes beyond infrastructure—it’s about redefining the emirate’s economic identity. By embracing innovation, Ajman prepares to meet global trade demands and emerge as a future-ready logistics hub.
Charting the Future of Ajman Port
This Dhs1 billion agreement is more than a development plan—it’s a pledge to innovation, economic growth, and sustainability.
As upgrades and training begin, Ajman Port is set to become a major regional trade center. The project reflects Ajman’s ambition to diversify its economy and secure a lasting place in the global logistics landscape.
