Abu dhabi: AD Ports Group has secured a US$115 million project finance facility to support the development of the Noatum Ports – Safaga Terminal in Egypt, marking a significant step in the Group’s commitment to expanding port and logistics infrastructure in key international markets.
According to Emirates News Agency, the financing is backed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and includes participation from National Bank of Kuwait – Egypt (NBK – Egypt) and other institutional investors through the IFC-managed co-lending portfolio program. The facility carries a 15-year tenor, underscoring international confidence in AD Ports Group’s operational capabilities and Egypt’s strategic significance in the global supply chain.
The financing has received necessary approvals, and financial closure is anticipated in Q1 2026, pending the fulfillment of customary conditions. This arrangement aligns with the Group’s strategy to leverage long-term, multilateral-backed financing for strategic infrastructure assets in emerging markets.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized the importance of this IFC-backed facility in funding long-term infrastructure assets through multilateral and institutional partnerships. He highlighted the strategic significance of Egypt to the global supply chain and reaffirmed the Group’s focus on delivering sustainable infrastructure that enhances connectivity and supports economic growth.
Makhtar Diop, Managing Director of IFC, noted that enhancing trade is crucial for economic development and described the project as a demonstration of IFC’s role as a strategic enabler for South-South investments. The project is expected to bolster Egypt’s position as a central trade hub, lower local business costs, and create high-quality jobs, while also reinforcing the UAE’s role as a regional growth engine.
Yasser El Tayeb, Vice Chairman, CEO, and Managing Director of NBK – Egypt, stated that the financing highlights NBK – Egypt’s commitment to supporting strategic infrastructure projects that drive sustainable growth and have an environmental impact by reducing CO2 emissions. He expressed confidence in Egypt’s logistics sector and its long-term potential.
The Noatum Ports – Safaga Terminal, a US$200 million project located on Egypt’s Red Sea coast, is set to become the first internationally operated port terminal in Upper Egypt. This terminal is part of AD Ports Group’s broader strategy to develop high-performance port assets in high-growth trade corridors, particularly in Egypt, which has become a key international market for the Group.
AD Ports Group’s investments in Egypt include container shipping, terminal operations, and maritime services. The Group is also developing cruise terminals in the Red Sea ports of Safaga, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh. In 2025, the Group expanded its portfolio through a 50-year renewable agreement to develop and operate KEZAD East Port Said, an industrial and logistics park at the Suez Canal’s Mediterranean gateway.
Further strengthening its position in the region, AD Ports Group recently acquired a 19.328% equity stake in Alexandria Container and Cargo Handling Company (ALCN), one of Egypt’s largest container terminal operators. The Group has announced plans to launch a Mandatory Tender Offer to acquire an additional stake in ALCN, aiming for majority ownership and control. ALCN operates terminals at Alexandria and El-Dekheila ports, complementing AD Ports Group’s expansion in Egypt and providing financial returns.