AD Ports Group raised new capital through Dhs4 billion primary issuance

AD Ports Group, one of the UAE’s leading integrated ports, logistics and industrial zone operators, on Monday announced the listing of its shares on the main market of the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX). Trading is set to begin today (Tuesday), under the ticker symbol “ADPORTS”.

Ahead of the listing, AD Ports Group raised new capital through a primary issuance. The Dhs4 billion of cash proceeds from this primary issuance will be used to fund the Company’s organic and inorganic growth plans, allowing the company to accelerate its local and international expansion plans. Accordingly, ADQ, an Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company with a broad portfolio of major enterprises, remains a majority shareholder with a 75.44 per cent stake in the listed entity.

Furthermore, ADQ transferred ownership of stakes in two listed companies to AD Ports Group prior to the listing. This comprised a 22.32 per cent stake in logistics firm Aramex (Aramex) and a 10 per cent stake in UAE-based contractor National Marine Dredging Company (NDMC), which specialises in engineering, procurement, construction and marine dredging. Both companies create significant synergies to AD Ports Group’s existing business and will accelerate its growth strategy as a diversified global trade and logistics platform.

Falah Mohammed Al Ahbabi, Chairman of AD Ports Group, said: “Driven by our leaders’ vision to diversify our economy, we have built a market-leading business that embraces a culture of innovation and supports its growth through strategic partnerships with leading organisations around the world. We welcome our new shareholders, and we are confident that we are well-positioned to take the next step on our journey of sustained growth and global expansion.”

Capt. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said: “In 2021, we signed major agreements with international organisations and we delivered strong results across every part of our business despite significant stress on global supply chains caused by the impact of COVID-19. We will continue to encourage growth, innovation and the highest level of customer service. Our commitment will ensure sustained success that will benefit our shareholders and other key stakeholders in the year ahead and for the long-term.”

AD Ports Group is rated A+ by S&P and A+ by Fitch. Established in 2006, AD Ports Group today serves as the region’s premier facilitator of logistics, industry, and trade, as well as a bridge linking Abu Dhabi to the world.

Part of ADQ, an Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company with a broad portfolio of major enterprises, AD Ports Group’s vertically integrated business approach has proven instrumental in driving the emirate’s economic development over the past decade.