ABU DHABI Ports Company (ADPC)  has invested more than Dh27 million ($7.34 million) in the western region of Al Gharbia during last year to help improve key port facilities and help local communities and businesses, the company says.

ADPC has five ports in the region: Marfa, Al Sila, Sir BaniYas, Mugharrag, and Delma. As part of its remit as master developer of the non-oil and gas maritime assets in the emirate, ADPC is leading a programme of investment in each area designed to boost local industries and support port communities.

The region is an area of exceptional natural beauty occupying a vast area of 60,000 sq km, 60 per cent of the total area of Abu Dhabi, with a coastline stretching for 350 km.

Rich in natural resources such as palm trees, pearls, oil, gas and solar energy, Al Gharbia contributes 45 per cent of the emirates GDP, said an ADPC statement.   

The Dh27 million investment in the region included Dh7.5 million for Mugharrag Port, Dh17 million for Marfa Port and most recently Dh2.5 million for the first phase of development at Delma Port.

More investment is planned for the year ahead, as development plans for ports in the region progress to the next stage.

CEO Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi said: “Our ports in the Western region play a very significant role in each of their respective communities. The ports provide a valuable source of livelihood and offer enormous business and leisure potential for the future.

“In time, each of these ports will be contributing significantly towards the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030. As a result, we are working in consultation with the community and key stakeholders to assess current facilities and to ensure the investment is as strategic as possible, while supporting the traditional culture and values of each location,” he stated.

In Mugharrag Port, ADPC’s investment has improved gate and entrance security, enhanced fendering along the quay walls, built a new marine slipway for a small landing craft and upgraded facilities for ferries operating between the mainland and Delma Island.

Development work in Marfa Port is being split into two phases. The first, which started in 2013, focuses on port facilities, installing floating pontoons for the fishing community and improving coastal protection with dredging and reclamation work.

The second phase focuses on landside infrastructure and new marina facilities, including a fisherman’s association, fish-market, café, restaurant and small supermarket.

There will be retail units for maintenance businesses, boat parking, a shaded dry dock area for boat maintenance and around 240 new berths for boats.