AD Ports Group Acquires Strategic Stake in Egyptian Terminal Operator for EGP 13.2 Billion
AD Ports Group has strengthened its regional footprint with the acquisition of a 19.328 per cent stake in Alexandria Container & Cargo Handling Company (ALCN), one of Egypt’s largest and oldest container terminal operators. The stake, previously held by the Saudi Egyptian Investment Company (SEIC), was purchased for approximately EGP 13.2 billion, marking a significant step in the company’s broader expansion strategy across the Middle East and North Africa.
The acquisition underscores AD Ports Group’s growing ambitions in the maritime and logistics sector, particularly along the Mediterranean coast, where Egypt serves as a vital gateway for international trade. With the Suez Canal—one of the world’s busiest waterways—nearby, strategic investments in Egyptian port infrastructure have become increasingly important for global and regional shipping companies.
Founded in 1984 and publicly listed on the Egyptian Exchange since 1995, ALCN has built a strong reputation as a leading container handler, serving major shipping lines through modern port infrastructure and multimodal connectivity. The company operates two of Egypt’s most important Mediterranean terminals: Alexandria Terminal and El-Dekheilla Terminal. Combined, these facilities handled 1.07 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) in the 2024–25 financial year, highlighting ALCN’s central role in supporting Egypt’s trade flows.
The two terminals together span a quay length of approximately 1.6 kilometres, offering deep-water berths, advanced cargo-handling equipment and integrated rail links to Egypt’s national rail network. This seamless connection to inland destinations positions ALCN as a crucial node for domestic distribution as well as for transit cargo moving between Africa, Europe and the Middle East.
With its investment, AD Ports Group aims to leverage ALCN’s established market presence and operational strength while introducing its own expertise in port management and logistics innovation. The UAE-based group has been steadily expanding beyond its home market, forging partnerships and pursuing acquisitions in Jordan, Iraq, Pakistan and other regional economies. Its latest move in Egypt aligns with broader efforts to tap into high-growth trade corridors while contributing to the economic diversification goals of the United Arab Emirates’ leadership.
In a statement, Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO of AD Ports Group, said the acquisition reflects the company’s confidence in Egypt’s maritime potential and its intention to play a greater role in improving efficiency along critical shipping lanes.
“By acquiring a stake in ALCN, we are expanding our operational footprint in one of the world’s most critical maritime routes,” he said. “This investment supports our efforts to facilitate trade through this vital corridor, while deepening our partnerships and expanding our investments in Egypt. This is fully aligned with the directives of our wise leadership to drive economic diversification, strengthen regional integration, and deliver long-term value for our stakeholders.”
Industry analysts say the deal adds further momentum to Egypt’s ongoing efforts to modernise and expand its port infrastructure. The government has been prioritising strategic partnerships with leading global port operators to strengthen the competitiveness of its maritime sector, boost logistics performance and attract greater investment in industrial and free-zone development.
For AD Ports Group, the acquisition provides a robust platform to scale up operations in a market that has demonstrated resilience despite global economic disruptions. Egypt’s proximity to Europe, combined with its access to key Red Sea and Mediterranean shipping routes, makes it an attractive investment destination for logistics and maritime companies seeking to serve emerging trade corridors.
The investment could also pave the way for future collaborations in digital logistics, port automation and supply-chain optimisation—areas where AD Ports Group has made significant strides in recent years. Its technical expertise and financial strength are expected to complement ALCN’s long-standing local experience, creating new opportunities for improving service efficiency, handling capacity and operational sustainability.
The move comes at a time when competition among regional port operators is intensifying, driven by shifting trade patterns, ongoing geopolitical challenges and efforts by countries to position themselves as logistics hubs. In this context, the acquisition not only reflects AD Ports Group’s strategic foresight but also signals confidence in the long-term stability and growth potential of North African maritime trade.
Market observers also note that the influx of new investment into ALCN could support Egypt’s broader economic ambitions, including the strengthening of export competitiveness, integration into global supply chains and development of employment opportunities in the logistics and maritime sectors.
With the deal now in place, AD Ports Group is expected to work closely with Egyptian authorities and ALCN’s management to explore avenues for operational synergies, capacity expansion and value-added services. The group has emphasized that its approach remains centred on building sustainable partnerships that contribute to regional connectivity and economic development.
As global shipping continues to navigate uncertainties ranging from freight-rate volatility to geopolitical tensions, strategic investments in stable and well-connected port assets have become increasingly important. AD Ports Group’s latest acquisition positions it strongly to meet these challenges while expanding its influence along one of the world’s most vital maritime corridors.
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