ABU DHABI: AD Ports Group, a global leader in trade, logistics and industry, has signed a shareholders’ agreement with the Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) to launch Maqta Ayla, a joint venture company that will implement a Port Community System (PCS) in Aqaba’s ports.

The PCS will streamline communications and transactions between the port stakeholders, improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. The deal also marks the first export of Abu Dhabi’s key port digitalisation solution, Maqta Gateway, which will have a 51 per cent stake in Maqta Ayla.

The agreement was signed in the UAE on the sidelines of the 20th Transport Middle East Conference, in the presence of high-level officials from both sides. The PCS is expected to be operational within a year and will support Aqaba’s role as a major regional destination for tourism, trade and investment.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said: “Guided by our leadership, we remain steadfast in our approach to support the economic development plans of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. This agreement with the Aqaba Development Corporation demonstrates our continued efforts towards enhancing the Kingdom’s maritime sector and complements our efforts in bolstering its tourism sector. It also reaffirms the strong trade ties between the two nations.”

“We are excited to see our ports’ digitalisation expertise and advanced technology know-how being leveraged for the Port of Aqaba. We look forward to offering them across more international locations to continue on our mission of transforming global trade.”

Dr Noura Al Dhaheri, CEO of Digital Cluster and CEO of Maqta Gateway, AD Ports Group, said: “This new agreement seeks to further strengthen our solid partnership with the Aqaba Development Corporation and fast-track our joint efforts towards digitalising the Port of Aqaba, making it more intelligent, resilient and cost-efficient. With digitalisation of ports’ processes; customer and stakeholder experiences will see a huge uplift, boosting trade and driving economic prosperity.”

“Building on our reputation of being an AI led nation and in line with the direction of our wise leadership, we will continue our efforts towards development and deployment of innovative solutions, locally and globally.”

H.E. Hussein Al Safadi, CEO, Aqaba Development Corporation, said: “This agreement paves the way to significantly enhance communication among the ports’ various stakeholders, enabling transparency and predictability. We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Maqta Gateway and are confident that Maqta Ayla will be highly instrumental in our efforts to enhance sustainable economic activity at one of Jordan’s most vital gateways.”

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