Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) is set to invest Dh20 million ($5.4 million) to carry out essential maintenance work at Zayed Port and its neighbouring freeports to repair the quayside wall enhancing the ports’ facilities and services.

The city centre Zayed Port covers 535 hectares and contains 21 berths and has been the main gateway for trade in the emirate, said a statement.

It remains the gateway for general cargo vessels, RORO (roll-on/roll-off) and is emerging as a destination for international luxury cruise ship tourism, while the nearby freeport and the new freeport are used by smaller vessels, tugs, barges and service crafts that serve offshore oil fields as well as lay-up and vessels that require minor repairs.

The freeport covers an area of 305 hectares and has 49 berths with a total length, while the new freeport was built in 2005 and covers an area of 293 hectares, with 32 berths, it said.

Waleed Al Tamimi, vice president, asset management ports, said: “It’s a good time to do the maintenance, because all of the container cargo is being handled at Khalifa Port.

“However, the cruise and RORO business and the amount of bulk and general cargo handled at Zayed Port is increasing steadily, and we are keen to complete the work in the months ahead to ensure that the quayside in both ports is in top condition for many, many years.”

The contract has been awarded to ASD, which will undertake the work over the next six months. The maintenance will be carried out in sections to minimise disruption and to further guarantee smooth and safe operations at both ports.

The work will include the replacement of the quay walls which are designed to keep the ships secure and undamaged. - TradeArabia News Service