Khalifa Port Advances To 39th Position In Lloyd’s List Top 100 Ports For 2025

Khalifa Port has climbed to the 39th spot in the Lloyd’s List Top 100 Ports for 2025, marking a significant rise among global container ports. Since entering the list at 95th place in 2019, Khalifa Port has shown steady growth through strategic expansion and technological advancements. This ranking highlights its importance as a logistics gateway and Abu Dhabi's growing role in international trade.

Recognised as an industry standard, Lloyd’s List ranks container ports based on throughput and operational excellence. Khalifa Port's consistent rise reflects its transformation into a smart, sustainable maritime hub with increased throughput and a strong network of global shipping partners. The port integrates sea, land, rail, and air transport links, enhancing supply chain resilience.

Khalifa Port is unique in the Gulf region for hosting terminals operated by three of the world's top five shipping companies: COSCO Shipping Ports (CSP), CMA CGM, and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC). These partnerships offer unmatched capacity and connectivity, providing direct access to major markets worldwide. This setup benefits importers, exporters, and consumers with competitive advantages.

The port's strategic link with KEZAD Group creates an integrated ecosystem connecting manufacturing, storage, and distribution directly to its global network. This connection enhances efficiency across supply chains. Khalifa Port has consistently grown year-on-year due to expanded capacity, new services, and advanced digital technologies.

In Q2 2025, AD Ports Group's total container capacity reached 11.8 million TEUs, with Khalifa Port accounting for 9.6 million. Container throughput for H1 2025 increased by 21% year-on-year to 3.62 million TEUs, with Khalifa Port handling 85% of this volume. These figures underscore the port's operational excellence and its role in Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification.

Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO of Ports Cluster – AD Ports Group stated: "Khalifa Port’s steady climb in the Lloyd’s List Top 100 Ports ranking exemplifies our long-term vision and commitment to operational excellence. It stands as a testament to the dedication of our teams, the trust of our global partners, and the success of our integrated strategy to reinforce Khalifa Port’s position as a world-class hub for trade and logistics."

Future Prospects

Through ongoing investments and strategic alliances, AD Ports Group continues to bolster Khalifa Port’s role in advancing Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification. The port is reinforcing its position as a leading global centre for trade, logistics, and industry. Its continuous development ensures it remains a pivotal player in international commerce.

Khalifa Port's achievements are driven by expanded capacity and new shipping services alongside advanced digital technologies. As it grows further, it will continue to play a crucial role in connecting Abu Dhabi with global markets while supporting regional economic growth.

With inputs from WAM