Abu Dhabi Airports and JD.com launch new logistics hub

Abu Dhabi Airports announced a strategic joint venture with JINGDONG Property (JDP), the infrastructure arm of global e-commerce leader JD.com, to develop and operate advanced logistics facilities within Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ).

The strategic partnership will see the construction of two state-of-the-art warehouses, bonded and non-bonded, spanning a total gross floor area of over 70,000 sqm at the ADAFZ Logistics Park, marking JDP’s first development project in the UAE. The infrastructure investment is set to enhance cross-border e-commerce capabilities and strengthen e-commerce and specialized cargo logistics throughout the GCC and broader MENA region.  

Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports said: “This joint venture aligns seamlessly with Abu Dhabi's vision of becoming a global trade and logistics hub. By combining JDP's expertise in cutting-edge logistics infrastructure with our strategic location and capabilities, we are creating a dynamic ecosystem that will attract investment, create growth opportunities, and reinforce Abu Dhabi's role in global supply chains.”

JD.com, Inc ranked 47th on the Fortune Global 500 and listed on NASDAQ, has rapidly become a major player in global e-commerce. JD Property, established in 2012, is JD.com's dedicated infrastructure arm, with a portfolio of over 50 infrastructure projects across nine countries outside of China.

"We are delighted to enter into this strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Airports to jointly develop high-standard warehouse projects at the ADAFZ Logistics Park." said Cao Dong, Chief Executive Officer of JDP "This signing marks an important milestone for both sides, and we highly value the trust and support from our partner. We have great respect for the UAE market and are committed to bringing our expertise and resources to support the country’s logistics infrastructure development and e-commerce capabilities. Looking ahead, we are eager to deepen our collaboration, increase our investment, and work together towards long-term, mutually beneficial growth."

The new facility will leverage the strategic proximity to airport facilities and transport infrastructure to support multimodal logistics, boosting the region’s remarkable expansion in the e-commerce industry.

As a muti-sector free zone, ADAFZ offers a tailored-made commercial environment that attracts diversified private-sector investments. The joint venture is expected to drive significant mutual benefits, advancing Abu Dhabi's logistics sector and the Emirate’s broader economic diversification ambitions.

The Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone enjoys a strategic location, and we look forward to implementing further projects within the area. The newly completed warehouses will be ready to welcome Abu Dhabi Airports’ partners in the first quarter of 2025, making the zone one of the first entities to connect its operations to the major infrastructure project currently underway in the Al Falah area once it is completed.

Committed to the highest operational standards, the Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone provides a supportive environment for business growth. By focusing on attracting foreign direct investment to enhance economic diversification and global trade, the zone offers integrated infrastructure and tailored support services that meet the needs of both local and international investors. This plays a vital role in reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global destination for trade and innovation.

The Government of Abu Dhabi provides strong support to companies setting up operations within its free zones, offering a wide range of incentives. These include full foreign ownership without the need for a local partner, a low-cost operating environment, full repatriation of capital and profits, and exemptions from import/export duties, personal income tax, and corporate tax. Additionally, the free zones offer a streamlined one-stop-shop service to help companies quickly obtain the necessary permits and licenses from relevant authorities, along with access to skilled labor and suitable accommodation.

Free zones and free markets in the UAE allow the entry of a wide range of foreign goods from various countries, which can then be exported outside the UAE or moved to other free zones and markets without being subject to taxes or customs duties. Foreign goods that are re-exported into the country can also be brought into the free zones, provided they comply with export restrictions and the customs procedures applicable to re-exportation.

The Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone is established to serve as a unique and preferred business destination for both international and local companies operating in the following sectors: