They will cooperate across several mutually reinforcing areas, including developing scalable digital platforms that enhance transparency, efficiency, and interoperability across trade and logistics systems, etc.
The AD Ports Group has signed a strategic collaboration agreement with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UN’s operational arm for sustainable development, aimed at accelerating innovation in digital trade, smart logistics, and responsible automation of port operations across MENA and global markets.
This brings together AD Port Group’s expertise in digitalisation, smart port infrastructure, and AI-enabled logistics, with the UNDP’s global mandate in governance, policy, and inclusive development. The collaboration strives to promote resilient trade ecosystems and support the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
AD Ports and UNDP will cooperate across several mutually reinforcing areas, including developing scalable digital platforms that enhance transparency, efficiency, and interoperability across trade and logistics systems; advancing artificial intelligence technologies to transform supply chain management, trade finance, and customs processes; and supporting the adoption of automation and Internet of Things (IOT) solutions in port operations to improve resilience, safety and sustainability.
Resilient Trade Ecosystems
This collaboration also envisions joint research, case studies, and policy insights to inspire sustainable innovation, alongside co-hosting conferences and high-level forums to amplify the role of digitalisation and AI in shaping the future of global trade. Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said the collaboration with UNDP underscores their commitment to driving sustainable innovation in trade and logistics. “By combining our expertise in smart port solutions with UNDP’s global development mandate, we aim to foster inclusive and resilient trade ecosystems that not only enhance efficiency but also support the broader UN Sustainable Development Goals. Together, we are laying the foundation for a smarter, more sustainable future in global trade.”
Abdallah Al Dardari, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Regional Bureau for Arab States – UNDP, said digital transformation is essential for building smart, inclusive and secure trade systems that empower communities, strengthen resilience, reduce inequalities and accelerate progress towards the SDGs. “Our partnership with AD Ports Group harnesses AI and digital innovation to transform trade, focusing on sustainability, inclusivity and efficiency.”
UNDP, with presence in nearly 170 countries, partners with governments and institutions worldwide to promote sustainable development, eradicate poverty, and strengthen governance and the rule of law. Through collaboration with AD Ports Group, it reaffirms their shared commitment to advancing digitalisation and sustainability in the maritime and logistics sectors.
