The Government of Umm Al Quwain and Hutchison Ports announced on November 10 that the Hong Kong-based port operator has been awarded a concession to operate Ahmed Bin Rashid Port in Umm Al Quwain (UAQ), a key entry-exit point for container, general, Ro-Ro and bulk cargo in the northern United Arab Emirates.

Hutchison Ports assumes operation of Ahmed Bin Rashid Port in The Emirate of Umm Al Quwain
Caption: Mr. Sultan Saeed Al Ali (front left), Executive Director of the Umm Al Quwain Ports, Customs and Freezone Corporation, and Andy Tsoi, Hutchison Ports Managing Director of Middle East and Africa, prepare to sign the agreement in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla (back centre), Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, and Eric Ip (back right), Group Managing Director of Hutchison Ports

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, the Hong Kong-based port operator will run the facility under the name of Hutchison Ports UAQ.

Commenting on the latest addition to Hutchison Ports’ 51-port global network, Andy Tsoi, Managing Director of Middle East and Africa, stated, “The UAE economy is growing strongly and there is great demand for terminal facilities in the northern part of the Emirates. Our target is to improve the service level of the port to facilitate the emirate’s import and export trade. We look forward to contributing to the growth of the local economy.”

Mr. Sultan Saeed Al Ali, Executive Director, Umm al Quwain Ports, Customs & Free Zone Corporation commented, “The port in Umm Al Quwain has a long, rich history. With the presence of Hutchison Ports, we expect the terminal to be better positioned to serve the local community. This will help support our existing businesses while also helping to attract future investment into the emirate.”

Hutchison Ports UAQ is a four-berth facility with an 845-metre-long quay and a 23-hectare yard. With excellent road connections to the northern UAE and in close proximity to regional trade lanes, the facility is poised for significant growth.

No financial details were disclosed.

Source: Hutchison Ports