Tariffs could be raised at Abu Dhabi ports

Abu Dhabi: A source at Abu Dhabi Terminals (ADT), which operates the three main seaports in Abu Dhabi, told Gulf News on Friday the tariffs at the ports haven't been revised, but he didn't rule out the possibility of an increase in the foreseeable future.

"As of date, no ... but there are chances [of an increase] as ports across the GCC [Gulf Co-operation Council] are increasing their tariffs," the ADT source said.

He said tariffs at their seaports - Mina Zayed, Musaffah and the Freeport are uniform.

"The last increase in tariffs became effective from January 15, 2008 when all port charges except stevedoring charges were revised," said the source, adding the port dues are levied based on gross register tonnage (GRT) of the vessels.

Abu Dhabi Terminals plays an important part in the economic development of the UAE.

Connectivity

It allows the country to connect globally through its sea network and well equipped seaports. Mina Zayed is the main gateway for container and general cargo vessels, while the port in Musaffah is located in the heart of the industrial city. The Freeport caters to smaller vessels, tugs, barges and service craft.

Mina Zayed is located in the northeast section of Abu Dhabi. It covers 510 hectares and contains 21 berths with depths ranging from six to 15 metres and a total berth length of 4,375 metres.

In addition, Mina Zayed has over 183,000 square metres of covered warehousing and cold storage facilities with a capacity of 20,000 tonnes.