MONTHLY
MOMENTUM August Edition
2026
TABLE OF CONTENTS Employee Connect Al Nukhba Programme Graduation
4-5
Youth Council 2026–2028
6-7
KZ Sports Summer Camp 2026
8-9
Safety in the Heat Campaign
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GIMI Level One E-Learning Now Available
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Introducing the Corporate Procurement Hub
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Innovators of the Future Summer Programme
12-13
Business Connect Kazakhstan President Awards our GCEO with the Order of Friendship
14-15
Maritime Hub AD Launches Guidebook
16-17
4th AD Maritime Awards for Regional Marinas
18-19
KEZAD Group to Host Touchdown Middle East 2026
20-21
Signing Official Logistics Partnership with Team Abu Dhabi
22-23
AI in Action AD Ports Group Launches AI-Powered Intelligence HQ
24-25
Mehwar Introduces New Agentic AI Capabilities
26-27
People & Culture
28-29
Welcome to the Family Inside the Role
KAFU Winners July 2026
Wellbeing Corner
Discover Exclusive Employee Offers & Promotions
30-31
Building Healthy Money Habits Session
32-33
Myth & Fact
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Video of the Month
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Congratulating Al Nukhba Cohort 1 & Welcoming Cohort 2 We celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of the Al Nukhba Programme, marking a significant milestone in AD Ports Group’s commitment to developing future leaders. As a cornerstone of our executive leadership development strategy, the programme equips high-potential employees with the strategic mindset, leadership capabilities, and cross-functional experience needed to drive sustainable growth and support the Group’s longterm ambitions. The ceremony recognised the achievements of Cohort 1 as they successfully completed their development journey and welcomed Cohort 2, reinforcing our continued investment in building a strong pipeline of future leaders who will shape the next chapter of AD Ports Group’s success.
Employee Connect
We exist to reimagine trade, enabling progress for all Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi Managing Director & Group CEO AD Ports Group
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AD PORTS GROUP YOUTH COUNCIL MEMBERS (2026–2028 CYCLE)
Mouza Al Kaabi ECFZ (KEZAD) Vice Chairperson
Zayed Musaed Ports Chairperson
Latefa Al Mansoori Corporate Advisor
Ahmed Al Katheeri Corporate Member
Maryam Al Blooshi Corporate Member
Saleh Al Nuaimi Ports Member
Taif Al Amim ECFZ (KEZAD) Member
Mariam Al Zaabi Logistics Member
Mohamed Al Neyadi Digital Member
Muoza Al Neyadi Maritime Member
Hend Al Hammadi Logistics Member
Employee Connect
We announced the new AD Ports Group Youth Council for the 2026–2028 cycle, bringing together a diverse group of talented employees from across the Group to represent the voice of our young workforce. Selected through a competitive process based on their leadership potential, innovative mindset, and commitment to making a positive impact, the new council members will help shape opportunities for young talent while driving meaningful initiatives that support AD Ports Group’s continued growth and future success. Congratulations to all members, we look forward to the valuable contributions they will make over the next two years.
OUR YOUTH ARE SHAPING THE FUTURE OF GLOBAL TRADE 7
KZ Sports Summer Camp 2026
Employee Connect
KZ Sports Summer Camp returns from 6 July to 27 August at Digital District – Zayed Port, offering a wide range of sports and activities for children aged 4–15. AD Ports Group employees can enjoy an exclusive 50% discount on camp fees. Register now and give your children a summer filled with learning, friendship, and fun.
Looking for a fun and active summer for your children?
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Safety in the Heat Campaign Our annual Safety in the Heat campaign is underway from 15 June to 15 September in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Public Health Center. The campaign promotes awareness, prevention, and compliance with the UAE’s mandatory midday break to help protect everyone from heat-related illness and injury. Look out for workshops, training sessions, and safety resources, and do your part to help us achieve zero Lost Time Incidents (LTI) this summer.
Employee Connect
GIMI Level One E-Learning (Now Available) The GIMI Level One E-Learning Course is now available on Mehwar. Developed with Sia Partners and aligned with global GIMI standards, the course features 10 interactive modules designed to strengthen innovation capabilities across AD Ports Group.
Complete the 3.5-hour course to earn your certification and begin your innovation journey today. Start Your GIMI Learning Journey
Introducing the Corporate Procurement Hub The new Corporate Procurement Hub is now live, providing a single destination for procurement policies, procedures, templates, services, guidance, and resources across AD Ports Group. Developed as part of the Corporate Procurement Transformation Programme, the Hub offers quick access to trusted information, smart search capabilities, learning
resources, and the latest procurement updates. Visit the Hub on eBAB and make it your first stop for all procurement-related information and services. Explore the Hub
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Inspiring the Innovators of the Future AD Ports Group’s Innovation Team hosted the Innovators of the Future Summer Programme, giving employees’ children aged 15 to 18 an opportunity to explore innovation, creativity, and future-focused thinking. The programme featured interactive experiences, engaging visits, and immersive ideation workshops designed to encourage participants to think creatively, explore new concepts, develop original ideas, and present their solutions. The initiative reflects our commitment to nurturing the next generation of innovators and inspiring young minds to develop the skills and confidence to help shape the future.
Employee Connect
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Kazakhstan President Awards Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi with the Order of Friendship AD Ports Group has announced that His Excellency Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, has awarded its Managing Director & Group CEO, Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, with the prestigious Order of Friendship, for his role in advancing UAE-Kazakhstan cooperation in supply chain development. The award, presented during a ceremony today at the Presidential Palace in Astana, reflects international appreciation for Captain Al Shamisi’s support in advancing economic and trade cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and Kazakhstan, where AD Ports Group over four years has made investment commitments of more than AED 2.9 billion in shipping, ports, and logistics businesses. AD Ports Group has a strategic presence in Kazakhstan, where its tankers transport Kazakh oil across the Caspian Sea to western pipelines in Azerbaijan, and where the Group is co-developing the Sarzha Grain Terminal at Kuryk Port with local partners, and operating a Central Asian logistics joint venture with KTZ Express, the freight unit of Kazakhstan Railways. The efforts support the commercialisation of the ‘’Middle Corridor’’ overland trade route connecting Asia, Central Asia, and Europe to global markets.
Business Connect
In Kazakhstan, the Order of Friendship is awarded to distinguished individuals, diplomats, business leaders, and public figures who have made significant contributions to strengthening friendship and cooperation between the Republic of Kazakhstan and other countries, whilst promoting mutual understanding and collaboration at regional and international levels.
The prestigious award recognises Capt. Al Shamisi’s role in advancing UAE-Kazakhstan cooperation in supply chain development
I am honoured to receive the Order of Friendship from His Excellency Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan. This recognition reflects the strength of relations between the UAE and Kazakhstan and the success of our shared efforts in advancing trade and investment cooperation. We remain committed, under the wise guidance of our leadership in the UAE, to working with our partners in Kazakhstan to support impactful projects that enhance connectivity and contribute to Kazakhstan’s sustainable development.
Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi Managing Director & Group CEO AD Ports Group
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Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi Launches Guidebook for International Maritime Businesses Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi launched a new guidebook to help international maritime businesses and entrepreneurs settle and grow in the emirate. The guidebook, titled “Abu Dhabi’s Compass for Maritime Businesses: Your Gateway to Global Opportunity,” outlines the core drivers of Abu Dhabi’s maritime competitiveness and growth opportunities for a global audience. Backed by facts, figures, and testimonials, as well as insights from DNV, the publication emphasises Abu Dhabi’s strategic position as a global trade hub, enabled by world-class infrastructure and integrated
Business Connect
multimodal connectivity across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America. Each carefully curated section presents a clear and compelling business case for international enterprises and prospective maritime partners. It also highlights how global companies can benefit from Abu Dhabi’s next phase of economic growth as the emirate emerges as one of the world’s fastest-rising maritime hubs, climbing 10 places since 2022 to rank 22nd in the “Leading Maritime Cities (LMC)” global benchmarking report. The guidebook includes overviews of Abu Dhabi’s
expansive maritime ecosystem, business environment, established network of industry stakeholders and institutions, and comfortable and welcoming lifestyle. Finally, it offers resources and contacts for interested parties to begin their journey in the emirate. Overall, the guidebook underlines Abu Dhabi’s longterm stability as a future-ready and resilient destination for trade, investment, and innovation. Its launch also aligns with the UAE national vision for diversified, sustainable economic development.
Maritime Hub Abu Dhabi unites government and private stakeholders in the emirate’s maritime sector with a goal to spark connection, create domestic and international opportunities, and collaborate on initiatives to elevate the emirate’s status as a global maritime centre.
Led by the Integrated Transport Centre and operated by Abu Dhabi Maritime, part of AD Ports Group,
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4th Edition Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards Spotlight Exceptional Marinas In collaboration with the Integrated Transport Centre (Abu Dhabi Mobility), an affiliate of the Department of Municipalities and Transport, Abu Dhabi Maritime has announced the opening of submissions to the 2026 Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards, set to culminate in a prestigious ceremony during the Abu Dhabi International Boat Show, scheduled to take place from 19–22 November 2026. Founded in 2023, the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards aim to bring recognition to the vibrant marina industry across the Middle East, North Africa, and Türkiye (MENAT region), and to set new benchmarks for
excellence in marina management and operations across 12 award categories. Submissions for the fourth edition are open to all licensed marina owners and operators across the MENAT region. The fourth annual edition of the Abu Dhabi Maritime Awards consists of organisation, project, and individual-based categories – a holistic approach that recognises the institutions, initiatives, and people shaping the regional industry. Five core organisation-based categories recognise achievements in “Customer Experience,” “Employer Excellence,” “Health & Safety,” “Innovation,” and “Sustainability.” The top “Outstanding Marina Award” is presented to the marina that demonstrates excellence across all five organisation-based categories.
Business Connect
Marinas that apply to the Outstanding Marina Award are automatically entered into the five core organisation-based categories. The winner of this top accolade will not be eligible to win other organisation-based categories to ensure equitable opportunity for all participating marinas. Three project-based categories reward targeted initiatives. The “Sustainability Project,” “Innovation Project,” and “Wellbeing Project” Awards celebrate successful standalone projects rather than overall organisational performance.
The three individual-based categories – the “Outstanding Leader Award,” “Outstanding Service Hero Award,” and “Rising Star Award” – honour the people who inspire their colleagues, customers, and communities through remarkable performance and meaningful contributions. Finally, the 2026 programme will include the returning “Most Popular Marina” recognition, determined by public vote via a secure online portal opening in October.
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AD Ports Group Signs Official Logistics Partnership with Team Abu Dhabi AD Ports Group has signed a logistics partnership agreement with Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, under which AD Ports Group becomes the Official Logistics Partner of Team Abu Dhabi F1H2O for the 2026 UIM F1H2O World Championship. The agreement was signed by Sultan Al Ghaithi, Group Chief Human Resources Officer, AD Ports Group; and Thani Al Qamzi, Executive Director of Team Abu Dhabi and Modern Sports, Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, in the presence of senior officials and representatives from both organisations. Through the partnership, AD Ports Group will support the logistics operations behind Team Abu Dhabi’s global campaigns by leveraging its expertise and capabilities in logistics and supply chain management. This will enable the efficient transportation of race boats and technical equipment in line with the highest international standards, further enhancing the team’s readiness for major competitions. The partnership brings together two organisations that proudly represent Abu Dhabi on the international stage. Team Abu Dhabi has established itself as one of the world’s leading marine sports teams, carrying the Emirate’s name across major global championships, while showcasing Abu Dhabi as a premier global destination for sport and tourism,
Business Connect
supported by its world-class infrastructure and proven expertise in hosting international sporting events. At the same time, AD Ports Group continues to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global hub for industry, trade, and logistics.
Under the partnership, AD Ports Group’s brand will be featured across Team Abu Dhabi’s boats, race apparel, media platforms, and promotional activities throughout the 2026 championship season. The partnership reinforces AD Ports Group’s connection with excellence in marine sports while supporting a team that continues to inspire pride in the UAE.
The agreement represents a model of collaboration between national institutions and supports Abu Dhabi’s vision of strengthening its global leadership in marine sports through strategic partnerships built on expertise, innovation and excellence.
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Fourth edition of regional data centre conference moves to the UAE, bringing digital industry leaders together in Abu Dhabi July 08, 2026
KEZAD Group to Host Touchdown Middle East 2026 Business Connect
KEZAD Group will host Touchdown Middle East 2026 in Abu Dhabi, marking the first time the region-wide data centre conference will take place in the UAE. Organised by the Gulf Data Centre Association (GDCA), the fourth edition of Touchdown Middle East 2026 will take place on 18–19 November 2026 at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers. Following three consecutive years in Bahrain, the conference’s move to Abu Dhabi reflects its growing regional footprint and positions the UAE’s capital as its first new host venue. The conference will attract data centre operators, investors, technology providers, government stakeholders, real estate leaders, energy specialists and digital infrastructure decision-makers from across the Middle East and international markets. The event
is expected to attract more than 1,500 visitors, over 400 companies, 70 speakers and participants from more than 30 countries. The two-day conference will feature keynote sessions, panel discussions, networking meetings and industry-led conversations on the key issues shaping the sector, including power availability, connectivity, site readiness, regulation, investment, AI demand, cloud growth and sustainable data centre development.
Abu Dhabi is placing digital infrastructure at the centre of its next phase of economic growth, with a clear focus on AI demand, sovereign cloud, hyperscale compute, power planning and industrial land readiness. The Emirate’s Digital Strategy 2025 to 2027 commits AED 13 billion to digital transformation and targets full sovereign cloud adoption for government operations, full automation of government processes and more than 200 AI-led solutions across public services. Abu Dhabi has also moved into large-scale AI compute through Stargate UAE, a planned 1GW compute cluster within the wider 5GW UAE and US AI Campus, with the first 200MW expected to go live in 2026.
The conference comes at a time when demand for digital infrastructure is rising across the region, driven by AI, cloud computing, data sovereignty, smart industry, enterprise digital services and the growth of high-capacity connectivity. As main sponsor, KEZAD Group will leverage the platform to foster dialogue on how industrial zones, logistics platforms, energy infrastructure and real estate can work together to support the next wave of data centre investment.
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AD Ports Group Launches AIPowered Intelligence Headquarters IHQ, Marking 20 Years of Digital Innovation AI in Action
AD Ports Group has announced the launch of its AI-driven business intelligence headquarters IHQ, a Group-wide platform employing thousands of digital workers embedding AI across 20 global workstreams. The launch of the platform is aligned with the UAE’s National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence to position the nation as a global AI leader by 2031, and underscores two decades of continuous investment by AD Ports Group in digital innovation. Launched in the presence of H.E. Dr Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, Head of Cybersecurity Council for the UAE Government, at the Group’s Digital District- Zayed Port, the new platform will accelerate the Group’s
digital transformation by systematically leveraging the efficiencies of AI through an approach that emphasises security, transparency, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence. For AD Ports Group’s customers and partners, the launch of IHQ will progressively improve the speed, efficiency, and customer-centric nature of the Group’s service offerings across its portfolio of Ports, Economic Cities & Free Zones, Maritime & Shipping, Logistics, and Digital Clusters. IHQ will focus on integrating AI capabilities deep into the enterprise workstreams of the Group, improving efficiency, decision making, and customer service,
through a perpetual improvement process that speeds the profitable expansion of the business. At the time of the launch, IHQ features a number of transformed workflow demonstrations across workstreams, including port and berth optimisation, vessel arrival orchestration, software development and talent acquisition. Over the coming months, IHQ will enable systematic augmentation of AI across AD Ports Group’s 20 workstreams, multiplying the Group’s operational capacity.
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Mehwar Introduces New Agentic AI Capabilities Mehwar now features Ask Oracle AI in the Recruitment module, helping recruiters streamline hiring, identify candidates, and enhance the recruitment experience. Additional AI capabilities for Finance and Procurement will be introduced in the coming months, supporting smarter and more efficient ways of working.
AI in Action
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Congratulations to our KAFU Winners July 2026 View the Winners
Welcome to the Family
Every new colleague brings fresh ideas, diverse experiences, and unique talents that strengthen our journey together. Meet the newest members of the AD Ports Group family and discover the people behind the roles. Get to Know Our New Joiners
People & Culture
Inside the Role Yousef Abbas
Director - Environment & Climate
“Stay curious, embrace challenges that stretch you, build trust, and never stop investing in your own development. Leadership isn’t about the title—it’s about the impact you make every day.”
As Director of Environment & Climate, Yousef leads the development and implementation of environmental and climate strategies across AD Ports Group, driving sustainability, decarbonisation, regulatory compliance, and responsible business practices across the organisation. Recently selected for Al Nukhba Cohort 2, Yousef sees the programme as an opportunity to strengthen his
leadership capabilities, broaden his understanding of the Group’s diverse businesses, and build meaningful relationships with colleagues across the organisation. Passionate about creating long-term value, he believes effective leadership is rooted in curiosity, continuous learning, ownership, and empowering others to succeed.
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Discover Exclusive Employee Offers & Promotions Enjoy a growing range of exclusive offers and promotions available to AD Ports Group employees and their families. From hotel stays, theme parks, and fitness memberships to dining, family entertainment, and seasonal deals, these benefits are designed to support your wellbeing and work-life balance. Explore the Latest Wellbeing Offers
Wellbeing Corner
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Wellbeing Corner
Building Healthy Money Habits Session As part of our Wellbeing Series, employees joined a MantraCare expert for an engaging session on building healthier financial habits. The webinar provided practical guidance on budgeting, saving, debt management, investing, emergency planning, and making informed financial decisions to support long-term financial wellbeing. Watch the Recording
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Myth vs Fact
Myth:
Fact:
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Any extra hours I work can be converted into annual leave or cashed out.
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Compensatory Rest Leave (CRL) cannot be encashed or converted into annual leave or end-of-service benefits and must be used within the specified timeframe.
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My manager can reject my leave request without explanation.
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Leave requests are managed according to business requirements and policy guidelines. Employees should receive clear justification if a request cannot be approved.
Learn More..
Myth vs Fact
Video of the Month
We all know that one Teammate Don’t Miss the Video
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