AD Ports Group strengthens its presence in Pakistan. The company operates Karachi Gateway Terminal under a long-term concession. Moreover, teams focus on capacity upgrades and modern facilities. Additionally, this project supports regional trade growth. Furthermore, it aligns with broader infrastructure goals.

AD Ports Secures 50-Year Concession for Karachi Port Terminal

AD Ports Group signs a 50-year concession agreement with Karachi Port Trust. Leaders form a joint venture with Kaheel Terminals. Moreover, the partnership manages and develops container berths at East Wharf. Additionally, the JV invests in infrastructure improvements. Furthermore, plans target significant capacity expansion over ten years.

Current Status Update on Karachi Gateway Terminal

AD Ports Group progresses well with Karachi Gateway Terminal works. Teams sign major dredging agreements with Van Oord. Moreover, dredging deepens berths and channels effectively. Additionally, works enable larger vessels up to 350 meters. Furthermore, completion targets Q1 2026. Consequently, container capacity rises toward 1 million TEUs. Additionally, bulk handling facilities expand through partnerships. Furthermore, a long-term agreement with Louis Dreyfus Company develops clean bulk agricultural storage. Consequently, operations boost Pakistan’s trade efficiency.

This Karachi development connects closely to current initiatives. Moreover, AD Ports earmarks $667 million for port infrastructure in 2026. Additionally, the investment supports upgrades across multiple sites. Furthermore, it includes capacity growth at Karachi facilities.

Strategic benefits emerge from these efforts. Teams integrate dredging and bulk upgrades smoothly. Moreover, sustainability features gain priority with modern equipment. Additionally, the project creates jobs in marine works. Furthermore, it enhances connectivity along key trade corridors. Consequently, AD Ports strengthens its international footprint. However, execution demands coordinated planning.

This update reflects ongoing commitment to Pakistan’s port sector. Experts note positive impacts on logistics performance. Moreover, larger vessel access reduces freight costs. Additionally, agricultural handling facilities improve supply chains. Furthermore, the concession delivers long-term value for stakeholders. Consequently, Karachi Port gains competitive edge regionally.

Also Read: Latest Developments on Gwadar Port Project in Pakistan, South Asia

Overview of the concession agreement to develop Karachi Port in Pakistan

The development work will involve increasing the container storage area, extending quay walls, and deepening berths. Following the completion of the development work, the terminal will be able to accommodate “post panamax” class vessels carrying up to 8,500 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), and the yearly capacity for containers will rise from 750,000 to a million TEUs.

Capt Mohamed Al Shamisi, managing director and group chief executive of AD Ports said, “The agreement serves as an example of AD Ports Group’s plan to invest in important maritime trade routes for the UAE and to replicate our effective integrated business model in areas with long-term, sustainable growth possibilities.”

“This agreement to develop Karachi Port has the potential to open up a new chapter of development and advancement for both the UAE and Pakistan. Through the strengthening of our links with important trading partners and the resulting increase in economic growth and prosperity,” he continued.

The development comes as the UAE and Pakistan continue to strengthen trade ties. The UAE accounted for more than 40% of Pakistan’s commerce with Arab countries in 2021. Making it the country’s biggest commercial partner in the area.

AD Ports also intends to work in conjunction with Angolan organizations. In order to improve maritime connections along Africa’s west coast.

Project Fact Sheet

Project Name: Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) and Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML)

Concession Duration: 50 years for container terminal operations

Location: Berths 6-10, East Wharf, Karachi Port, Pakistan

Joint Venture: AD Ports Group (majority stake) with Kaheel Terminals

Key Works: Major dredging to deepen berths and channels; quay upgrades; bulk handling facility

Capacity Targets: Container handling up to 1 million TEUs; bulk vessel capacity doubled

Timeline: Dredging completion targeted Q1 2026; bulk facility development ongoing

Partners: Van Oord (dredging contractor), Louis Dreyfus Company (bulk handling)

Project Team

Sponsors: AD Ports Group and Karachi Port Trust (KPT)

Owners: Karachi Gateway Terminal Limited (KGTL) JV; Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML)

Partners: Kaheel Terminals (UAE-based JV partner), Louis Dreyfus Company Pakistan (bulk facility), Van Oord (dredging)

Contractors: Noatum Ports (international operations arm of AD Ports Group), Van Oord for marine dredging works

Sub-Contractors: Specialized firms for crane installations, utility networks, and civil construction at the terminal

Financiers: Internal funding from AD Ports Group; equity contributions from joint venture partners; previous commitments of approximately $295 million for terminal modernization