Abu Dhabi Terminals has announced a partnership agreement with Microsoft that heralds the next phase in the digital transformation of the emirate’s flagship maritime asset, Khalifa Port. 

 

The landmark partnership will enable enhanced container tracking and autonomous shuttle capabilities across Abu Dhabi Terminal’s Khalifa Port terminal through the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) services of Microsoft’s cloud solutions - Azure, said the statement from ADT.

 

Abu Dhabi Terminals is the management company and operator of Khalifa Port Container Terminal (KPCT), the region’s first, and one of the world’s largest semi-automated deep-water container terminals. KPCT is also one of the most technically advanced facilities of its kind. 

 

The technology, deployed in partnership with Microsoft Consulting Services, will fuel the introduction of AI-based container smart tracking solutions that will ensure 100 per cent traceability of all handled containers, as well as the potential to launch an autonomous vehicle system, it added. 

 

CEO Ahmed Al Mutawa said: "By driving innovation through the implementation of AI and automation, Abu Dhabi Terminals is committed to modernising our port environment, while also dramatically reducing our carbon footprint, and costs, as well as turnaround times for those accessing Khalifa Port."

 

"We are confident that by improving operational efficiencies, we are encouraging economic growth and bolstering business continuity, while also providing Emiratis with new opportunities to pursue careers in the ever-growing field of Artificial Intelligence," stated Al Mutawa at the signing ceremony held in the presence of the Omar bin Sultan Al Olama of the UAE Ministry of Artificial Intelligence. 

 

"The support of the UAE Ministry of AI and our partnerships with world-leading technology providers such as Microsoft Corporation, not only future proofs our nation’s maritime assets and infrastructure, but enables Abu Dhabi Terminals, and our shareholders at Abu Dhabi Ports, to reap tremendous long-term benefits as we continue this exciting digital transformation journey," he noted.

 

Microsoft President (EMEA) Ralph Haupter said: "With its ongoing commitment to the adoption of new technologies, the UAE is reimagining the world of global shipping and logistics to ensure it is robust, resilient and future-ready."

 

"This collaboration ushers in a new era for autonomous vehicles in a terminal environment, and I’m excited to see Microsoft’s cloud, artificial intelligence and Internet of Things technologies contribute to its success," he noted.

 

ADT Chief Automation Officer Arturo Garcia said: "We have constantly worked to improve operational efficiency in a manner not controlled by industry norms and conventions thanks to our firm commitment toward introducing and developing ground-breaking top-tier technologies."

 

"AI and Automation Technology are not widely used in the port industry, but we firmly believe in its potential and are convinced that our approach will not only benefit Abu Dhabi Terminals and the UAE, but will extend to the entire shipping industry, transforming the way business is done," he added.-TradeArabia News Service