Post by : Badri Ariffin

AD Ports Group has finalized a significant acquisition of an additional 30% stake in Global Feeder Shipping (GFS) for AED1.1 billion (approximately US$300 million), elevating its ownership in the Dubai-based company from 51% to 81%.

This major transaction was revealed on Wednesday, succeeding the Group’s initial purchase of a controlling share in GFS conducted in February 2024.

Call Option Exercised at Original Valuation

When acquiring its initial share in GFS, AD Ports Group negotiated a call option enabling further ownership expansion before December 2026.

The Group exercised this option at the original Enterprise Value of AED3.67 billion (US$1 billion) set during the first deal. The acquisition will be facilitated via a blend of debt financing and asset monetization strategies.

Strategic Importance of GFS

As the world’s fourth-largest container feeder shipping line by capacity, GFS has been a pivotal player since AD Ports launched its container feeder services in 2020.

GFS serves as a crucial link for major trade hubs to regional ports through its feeder services, enhancing cargo connectivity even amid global maritime disruptions across the GCC, Indian Subcontinent, Red Sea, Far East, Mediterranean, and Africa.

This acquisition further cements AD Ports Group's shipping network robustness, expanding its market reach and international trade access.

Greater Integration Across AD Ports Group

By elevating its ownership stake, AD Ports Group will gain enhanced operational control and strategic leverage over GFS while also boosting cash flow management.

This strategic move is set to fortify the synergy between GFS and the various components of the Group, including ports, logistics, economic cities, and free zones, enabling comprehensive trade solutions globally.

Leadership Comments on the Acquisition

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, emphasized that this acquisition showcases the company’s dedication to enhancing one of its premium assets.

He noted that GFS has broadened the Group’s market presence and strengthened customer ties while enhancing trade links across the Red Sea and Gulf.

Amir Maghami, CEO of Global Feeder Shipping, termed this deal as a crucial advancement, aligning GFS closer to AD Ports’ extensive operations.

He highlighted the partnership's role in fleet growth and service enhancement, asserting confidence in upcoming expansion opportunities.

Strong Operational and Financial Performance

In 2025, GFS achieved the impressive feat of transporting 2.8 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), executing over 700 voyages across 89 ports in 54 countries.

Since AD Ports Group’s initial investment, GFS has exhibited resilient financial performance, generating cumulative EBITDA surpassing AED1.8 billion (US$500 million).

Alongside SAFEEN Feeders and Transmar, GFS remains integral to AD Ports’ container feeder business, facilitating the movement of goods to and from the UAE.

Maritime & Shipping Cluster Records Growth

AD Ports Group reported a 17% increase in container feeder shipping revenue in 2025 compared to the previous year.

The Maritime & Shipping Cluster amassed revenue of AED10.7 billion in 2025, showcasing a 33% surge year-on-year, with EBITDA also climbing by 25% to AED2.5 billion.

This cluster represented 51% of AD Ports Group's overall revenue and 45% of its total EBITDA, underscoring its critical role within the Group’s portfolio.

What did AD Ports Group announce?
AD Ports Group confirmed the acquisition of an additional 30% stake in GFS for AED1.1 billion, raising its ownership from 51% to 81%.

Why is the acquisition important?
This deal enhances AD Ports Group's control over a vital shipping asset, improves trade connectivity, escalates cash flow, and deepens integration across its logistics operations.

How did GFS perform in 2025?
GFS successfully transported 2.8 million TEUs, completed over 700 voyages, navigated 89 ports across 54 countries, and secured strong financial outcomes for AD Ports Group.

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