09.10.2024 (Caucasian Journal). We are delighted to welcome Mr. Abdulaziz ZAYED AL SHAMSI, Regional CEO of AD Ports Group (United Arab Emirates).
AD Ports Group is a leading global maritime and logistics company, based in Abu Dhabi. The company has recently acquired a majority stake in Tbilisi Dry Port, and we believe our readers would be keen to learn more about this project and its importance for Georgia and the wider region.
Alexander KAFFKA, editor-in-chief of Caucasian Journal: Dear Abdulaziz, welcome to our journal. Let's begin with your project in Georgia and then explore a broader international perspective. Your company has become the majority owner of Tbilisi Dry Port (TDP), which is scheduled to commence operations this October. For many readers, the term "dry port" might seem contradictory. Could you please explain what a dry port is and what types of operations will you be initiating this autumn?
Abdulaziz Zayed Al Shamsi (AZA): Certainly. A dry port is sometimes referred to as an inland port. The Tbilisi Dry Port (TDP) is an intermodal terminal directly connected by road and rail to a seaport. TDP is a custom-bonded terminal with procedures in place to ensure customs duties are levied and paid, and it is rail-connected. It’s a logistics hub that can move containers, vehicles, and other goods for distribution and storage. TDP is an excellent fit for AD Ports Group. Not only does TDP represent a major step in our strategic expansion along the Middle Corridor between Asia and Europe, but it is also centrally positioned. TDP offers direct westward rail links to Türkiye and Georgia’s ports of Poti and Batumi. To the East, TDP connects with ports located along the Caspian Sea via a railway corridor to Azerbaijan. We have said that we expect to be operational in Tbilisi in Q4, when TDP begins its activities as a regional transit hub for manufacturers, shippers, and consignees moving all types of goods.
