ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

Aldar and AD Ports Group subsidiary Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD Group) have finalised a deal for Aldar to acquire two institutional-grade industrial and logistics assets in KEZAD for Dh570 million, according to a statement. The transaction expands Aldar’s recurring income portfolio and supports its strategy to scale its diversified logistics platform across the UAE.

The acquisition from AD Ports Group includes two Grade A assets developed by KEZAD Group as build-to-suit projects, occupied by Noon and Emtelle. The Noon facility is the UAE’s largest e-commerce fulfilment centre, while the Emtelle facility ranks among the world’s largest factories for fibre optic ducting and pre-connectorised solutions for the telecoms sector. Together, the assets have a built-up area exceeding 136,000 sqm and offer direct connectivity to Khalifa Port, Etihad Rail, and major highways, enabling efficient regional and international distribution.

Chief Executive Officer of Aldar Investment, Jassem Saleh Busaibe, said, “This acquisition marks another significant milestone in Aldar’s strategy to scale its logistics and industrial platform in the UAE, while further strengthening our expansive recurring income business. The Grade A assets acquired from AD Ports Group are strategically located and occupied for the long term, ensuring stable income generation. With the logistics market poised for substantial growth as the UAE cements its position as a hub for regional and international trade, we will continue to assess opportunities for further growth in the sector.”

CEO of Economic Cities & Free Zones, AD Ports Group, Abdullah Al Hameli, said, “The successful sale of our build-to-suit assets to Aldar reaffirms the market’s strong confidence in the quality and resilience of KEZAD’s logistics ecosystem and development capability. This transaction also highlights the attractiveness of our assets and the strength of Abu Dhabi’s industrial and logistics real estate market, which continues to see robust demand from global investors.”

“The acquisition aligns with Aldar’s strategy to increase its exposure to the industrial and logistics segment through selective acquisitions and developments,” the statement said.  

Aldar’s logistics portfolio now includes Abu Dhabi Business Hub, Almarkaz Industrial Park, and 7 Central in Dubai Investments Park, alongside ongoing development projects in Dubai South and National Industries Park.

“The divestment also aligns with AD Ports Group’s model of actively managing its portfolio and monetising non-core assets when opportune. Proceeds from the transaction will be used to de-lever the Group’s balance sheet,” the statement said. 

The Noon Fulfilment Centre, completed in March 2025, spans over 115,000 sqm and includes advanced temperature-controlled zones, cold storage, and sustainability features targeting Estidama 2 Pearl certification. The Emtelle facility, completed in June 2024, covers 21,000 sqm and serves as the company’s regional base for fibre optic and duct network solutions, with high technical standards including 6,500 kW power capacity and dedicated external storage areas for future expansion.