AD Ports Group has revealed that its operations contributed significantly to the non-oil economy of Abu Dhabi and the UAE, according to a new economic impact report prepared by Oxford Economics. In 2022, the Group’s activities accounted for an impressive 22.9% of Abu Dhabi’s non-oil GDP, equivalent to AED 132.7 billion at current prices. On a national level, its contribution to the UAE’s non-oil GDP reached AED 150.6 billion, or 11.6% of the total.
The findings highlight the Group’s pivotal role in fostering economic diversification in the region, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The report indicated that AD Ports Group’s share of Abu Dhabi’s non-oil GDP increased from 21% in 2020, showcasing its resilience and growing impact on the local economy.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasised the significance of the report, stating that it confirms the Group’s expanding economic influence and its commitment to establishing a sustainable and diversified economy for future generations. “Guided by our wise leadership, the Group is working diligently to open new economic horizons that offer next-generation economic infrastructure and job opportunities,” he said.
AD Ports Group serves as a strategic gateway to Abu Dhabi, which is fast becoming one of the Middle East and North Africa’s (MENA) most dynamic economies. The Group operates a comprehensive ecosystem that includes ports, economic cities and free zones, maritime and shipping, logistics, and digital services. Its global footprint extends to over 50 countries across the Middle East, North Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, Central and Southeast Asia, and Europe.
In 2022, the Economic Cities and Free Zones (EC&FZ) Cluster was the major contributor to the Group’s overall impact, accounting for 95% of its total contribution to the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s non-oil GDP. The report indicated that the Group’s activities supported an estimated 398,400 jobs across the UAE, representing 14.1% of total employment in the non-oil sector. In Abu Dhabi, AD Ports Group supported 261,700 jobs, including a significant 32.1% of employment in the emirate’s manufacturing sector.
Ross Thompson, Group Chief Strategy and Growth Officer, remarked on the Group’s expanding global presence. He noted that through its leadership in industrial development, transport, trade, and logistics, AD Ports Group is effectively promoting Abu Dhabi and the UAE on a global stage while attracting international investment.
The EC&FZ Cluster’s contributions stemmed largely from over 2,000 businesses operating under the KEZAD Group, a key component of the economic zones ecosystem in MENA. This cluster has not only excelled in manufacturing but has also stimulated growth in sectors such as construction, professional services, transportation, finance, and real estate.
With the insights provided by Oxford Economics, AD Ports Group is poised to leverage its capabilities to enhance economic diversification further, underpinning its critical role in shaping a robust and sustainable economy for Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. For more information, please visit: adportsgroup.com
