UN/LOCODE AE KHL: Port of Khalifa Port, United Arab Emirates — Seaport
Location
| Coordinates | 24.82, 54.69 |
|---|---|
| Country | United Arab Emirates |
| Function | Abu Dhabi's Deep-Water Container & Semi-Automated Port |
| Authority | Abu Dhabi Ports (AD Ports Group) |
Physical Specifications
| Max Draft | 16.5m |
|---|---|
| Channel Depth | 18.0m |
| Tide Range | 1.0m |
| Berth Length | 1,500m (container) |
| Anchorage Depth | 22m |
Administrative
| Customs Code | AEKHL |
|---|---|
| IMO Facility No. | Yes |
| Working Hours | 24/7 |
| ISPS Compliance | Yes (Level 1) |
| VHF Channel | 16 (Call), 12 (Port Ops) |
| Port Website | www.abudhabiports.ae |
Commercial & Logistics
| Annual Volume | 2,800,000 |
|---|---|
| Primary Cargo Types | Container, Vehicles, Bulk Cargo, Construction Materials, General Cargo |
| Vessel Types | Container, RoRo, Bulk, General Cargo |
| Free Trade Zone | Yes (KIZAD Free Zone) |
| Bunker Fuel | IFO 380, VLSFO, MGO |
| Nearest Airport | AUH (40km) |
| Rail Connection | Etihad Rail (under development — national freight rail network) |
| Highway Access | E11, E10, KIZAD Expressway |
| Inland Depots | KIZAD Logistics Park (12 CFS), Musaffah Industrial Area |
Trade Intelligence: Khalifa Port
Khalifa Port is classified as a Seaport with annual throughput of 2,800,000. The port handles Container, Vehicles, Bulk Cargo, Construction Materials, General Cargo. As Abu Dhabi's Deep-Water Container & Semi-Automated Port, Khalifa Port plays a critical role in United Arab Emirates's trade infrastructure. Shippers should confirm berth availability, draft restrictions, and ISPS security levels directly with Abu Dhabi Ports (AD Ports Group) before scheduling vessel calls.
Port History
Opened in September 2012 as Abu Dhabi's first semi-automated container terminal, replacing the old Mina Zayed port. Built on a man-made island with a 4.5km breakwater. The port's initial phase handles 2.5 million TEU with expansion to 15 million TEU planned. Adjacent to KIZAD (Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi) — a 417 sq km industrial zone. COSCO Shipping acquired a 90% stake in the container terminal in 2017.
Authority: Abu Dhabi Ports (AD Ports Group)
Other Ports in United Arab Emirates
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the LOCODE for Khalifa Port?
The UN/LOCODE is AE KHL. Use in bills of lading and customs declarations.
What trade routes connect to Khalifa Port?
Khalifa Port serves as Abu Dhabi's Deep-Water Container & Semi-Automated Port. AE DXB, QA HMD, OM SOH, SG SIN, CN SHA, IN NVA
How do I find shipping schedules?
Contact Abu Dhabi Ports (AD Ports Group) or query carriers (Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM) using LOCODE AE KHL.
Data Sources & Provenance
Port specifications compiled from:
- UNECE UN/LOCODE Directory — United Nations official location codes
- Abu Dhabi Ports (AD Ports Group) — official port authority
- IMO GISIS — maritime facility database
Updated: July 25, 2026. For reference only. Not for navigation.