Infrastructure development is a key part of Abu Dhabi’s economic development strategy. Can you highlight the main infrastructure projects currently under way and update us on their status.

Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC) is currently implementing the first phase of Khalifa Port and Industrial Zone (KPIZ) Development. The Khalifa Port, with its semi-automatic container terminal, is expected to be one of the most efficient and state-of-the-art container terminals in the world and the first of its kind in the Middle East. This ambitious fast-track project is expected to unfold over the next few years, with the Phase 1A of the port being available to receive commercial ships in late 2010.

Adjacent to the future Khalifa Port is a vast mixed-use industrial development. Earth-fill and site-clearing activities have been initiated to prepare the first 50 square kilometres of the industrial zone. The detailed design of the utilities and other primary infrastructure for the industrial zone is also well under way.

In addition to its KPIZ flagship project, ADPC is also actively and aggressively assessing the condition of other Abu Dhabi maritime non-military and oil and gas infrastructure in order to gradually implement a modernisation programme to improve and enhance the operational efficiencies of secondary ports in the United Arab Emirates.

How will these projects, once completed, add to Abu Dhabi’s appeal as an investment destination?

KPIZ will create a state-of-the-art and strategically located vast platform for development of specific industrial clusters. The size of the proposed industrial zone will allow for development of closely interlinked basic industries and downstream industries within a large number of highly integrated clusters. The availability of carefully planned and implemented utilities combined with seamless connection to state-of-the-art modern and an efficient multimodal transportation network are also some of the offerings that makes KPIZ best in class among similar projects.

What are the longer term plans for further infrastructure development?

The KPIZ project is truly a mega project and its phased development is expected to be continued in the long term. ADPC has plans for four additional expansion phases for the Khalifa Port which are to be completed by 2028. In addition, ADPC is phasing the development of the industrial zone with the potential for expanding land development from 50 square kilometres in the near term to 100 sq km and eventually up to 400 sq km or more.

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