AD Ports Group, a UAE-based terminal operator, and Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group, which manages China’s Ningbo Zhoushan Port, have signed a preliminary agreement to develop an automotive logistics ecosystem. This partnership aims to connect Chinese manufacturing with markets in the Middle East, Central Asia, and Africa through integrated terminal operations, dedicated fleet services, and multimodal transport solutions.

The agreement was formalized during a ceremony celebrating the maiden voyage of UGR Zakher, the second LNG-powered vessel operated by United Global Ro-Ro (UGR), a joint venture between AD Ports Group and Turkish logistics provider Erkport. The collaboration addresses the increasing demand for vehicle exports from China by enhancing roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) and automotive terminal operations at Ningbo Zhoushan Port and AD Ports Group’s hub locations.

The partnership focuses on accommodating larger vessels, boosting vehicle handling capacity, and streamlining port turnaround times. UGR will serve as the primary RoRo carrier, leveraging its existing services connecting China with terminals in the Middle East, Asia, and the Mediterranean. “This preliminary strategic partnership with Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group marks a defining moment in our combined efforts to establish smart, connected automotive corridors across continents,” said Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group.

Ningbo Zhoushan Port, a leading global port in cargo throughput, plays a vital role in international trade. “The maiden voyage of the new UGR ship, UGR Zakher, at Ningbo Zhoushan Port marks a new phase in our strategic partnership with AD Ports Group,” said Tao Chengbo, Chairman of Zhejiang Provincial Seaport Investment & Operation Group. The collaboration will expand into logistics, warehousing, green energy, and talent exchange to support the China-Arab Economic Corridor.

UGR Zakher, with a capacity of 7,000 car equivalent units, mirrors its sister ship, UGR Al Samha, delivered earlier this year. Both vessels utilize LNG to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency. This addition enhances UGR’s capacity and sailing frequency on deep-sea routes. The agreement also includes plans to integrate digital platforms and explore multimodal transport options, combining sea and rail routes through the Middle Corridor to facilitate trade between China, Central Asia, and Europe.

This partnership strengthens the automotive export supply chain, fostering efficient trade and logistics connections between China and emerging markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia.