Abu Dhabi: KEZAD Group and Metal Park have announced the commencement of the first phase of Metal Park's innovative Storage Hub in KEZAD. Designed to provide top-tier storage solutions and support services, this facility is set to benefit businesses throughout the region.
According to Emirates News Agency, the Metal Park Storage Hub, situated in the KEZAD Free Zone, is the world's first pay-as-you-go solution specifically for the metal industry and the inaugural independent warehouse dedicated to metal storage. The project, with a total investment of AED110 million, is planned to be completed in three phases, ultimately offering a massive storage capacity of 350,000MT and 54,000CBM shelved storage exclusively for metals.
Phase one of the development covers approximately 93,000 square meters, incorporating advanced features such as 26 overhead cranes capable of lifting up to 40MT, 55 loading bays for trucks, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs). These facilities will enable the hub to load and offload 48,000MT daily. Other notable features include vertical storage capability, a cantilever system for truck loading, and three weighbridges, two of which are 15 meters long with a 150MT capacity, and one 30 meters long with the same capacity. The hub will operate as a gated community, equipped with 24x7 surveillance and security measures.
Strategically positioned in the KEZAD Free Zone, the Storage Hub boasts direct access to Khalifa Port via a modular road, along with connectivity to the Etihad rail network and major highways linking Abu Dhabi to the Northern Emirates and the broader GCC region.
Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO of Economic Cities and Free Zones at AD Ports Group, emphasized that the opening of this pioneering Storage Hub signifies a crucial milestone for both Metal Park and the AD Ports Group's Economic Cities and Free Zones. Al Hameli highlighted their commitment to fostering innovation-driven ecosystems that serve as catalysts for industrial growth in KEZAD, thereby contributing to the diversification and expansion of Abu Dhabi's economy.
Saleh Shahrestani, Chairman of Metal Park, noted that this first-of-its-kind metal fulfilment center in the region will assist traders and stockists in lowering overhead costs amid a volatile metal market. Furthermore, it will bolster manufacturers' capabilities by allowing them to expand their distribution network and optimize production space, ultimately enhancing productivity and efficiency.