Khalifa Port Climbs to 39th Spot in Lloyd’s List Top 100 Ports
Abu Dhabi's Khalifa Port has made a striking leap in the latest edition of the annual Lloyd’s List “One Hundred Container Ports” ranking, landing at 39th globally for 2025.
This marks a significant advance from its initial ranking six years ago, reflecting concerted efforts to strengthen its global logistics position.
From 95th to 39th: A Rapid Rise
Back when it first entered the list in 2019, Khalifa Port was ranked 95th. The move to 39th by 2025 signals a decisive shift in its standing among the world’s container ports. The Lloyd’s List report notes that the global container-port threshold for inclusion remains highly competitive, and a jump like this is seldom seen.
What’s Behind the Momentum?
Several factors are pushing Khalifa Port’s rise:
Capacity and throughput growth: Owned and operated by AD Ports Group, the port has seen container capacity expand to 11.8 million TEUs, of which Khalifa Port handles around 9.6 million TEUs. In the first half of 2025, throughput rose by about 21% year-on-year to 3.62 million TEUs, with 85% of that handled at Khalifa Port.
Integrated logistics ecosystem: The port benefits from strategic integration with the KEZAD Group - the UAE’s largest trade and industrial hub - enabling direct links between manufacturing, storage and shipping.
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Global shipping alliances: Khalifa Port hosts container terminals operated by three of the world’s top five shipping and logistics companies - COSCO Shipping Ports (CSP), CMA CGM and Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) - a unique position in the Gulf region.
Technological and operational enhancements: The port has invested in smart port technologies, automation and advanced cargo-handling systems, helping it achieve higher operational efficiency and reliability.
Strategic Implications for Abu Dhabi and the Region
The climb of Khalifa Port aligns with the broader ambitions of Abu Dhabi and the UAE to diversify their economies, build logistics hubs and position themselves as key global trade gateways.
Saif Al Mazrouei, Chief Executive Officer, Ports Cluster – AD Ports Group, commented: “Khalifa Port’s steady climb in the Lloyd’s List Top 100 Ports ranking exemplifies our long-term vision and commitment to operational excellence.
"It stands as a testament to the dedication of our teams, the trust of our global partners, and the success of our integrated strategy to reinforce Khalifa Port’s position as a world-class hub for trade and logistics”.
Moreover, the success sends a clear signal to global shipping lines and supply-chain partners: the Middle East is increasingly a centre of gravity for container logistics, not simply a transit region. With rising volumes, strong hinterland connections and competitive infrastructure, the region’s ports may increasingly steal share from traditional hubs.
Looking Ahead
The global container-port sector continues to face headwinds. According to Lloyd’s List, the combined throughput of the Top 100 ports reached 743.6 million TEUs in 2024, up 8.1 % from the previous year. However, growth is expected to decelerate in the second half of 2025 and into 2026 amid geopolitical uncertainty and shifting trade flows.
For Khalifa Port, the key will be maintaining momentum: sustaining volume growth, expanding service offerings, and deepening connectivity with inland logistics, rail, air and manufacturing hubs. With the infrastructure and strategic backing in place, the port appears well-positioned — though the global competition is intensifying.
Khalifa Port’s jump into the Top 40 globally marks a milestone for Abu Dhabi’s logistics ambitions. With strong volume growth, integrated operations and major shipping-line partnerships driving its rise, it is now firmly among the world’s emerging container-port powerhouses.
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