Abu Dhabi Ports Group has submitted a bid to operate, manage and maintain the passenger terminal at Alexandria Port for a 15-year period, a board member at the Alexandria Port Authority told Al Manassa.
The offer, currently under review by the authority, includes the operation and refurbishment of the terminal, which spans approximately 35,000 square meters. The concession could be extended for another 15-year period.
"The Alexandria Port Authority is assessing the Emirati company’s proposal with great care," the official said, requesting anonymity. "The final report will be forwarded to the Ministry of Transport alongside evaluations of five competing bids from local companies," he added.
The authority is applying technical and operational criteria to evaluate the bidders. These include previous experience with similar projects, the ability to attract cruise passengers, regular maintenance capabilities, existing relationships with shipping lines, and ownership of vessels for passenger transfers, the official added.
This would be the fourth Egyptian cruise terminal deal for the Emirati logistics group. In 2023, the Ministry of Transport signed a similar 15-year agreement with Abu Dhabi Ports to develop and manage three cruise terminals in the Red Sea ports of Safaga, Hurghada and Sharm El-Sheikh.
The current offer follows the same structure, involving investment commitments to upgrade the terminal and turn it into a key hub for maritime tourism, the official said.
Earlier this month, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly witnessed the signing of an agreement to develop the "Kezad East Port Said" zone between the General Authority For Suez Canal Economic Zone and Abu Dhabi Ports Group. The 50-year renewable usufruct deal grants the Emirati firm rights to develop and operate an industrial and logistics area covering 20 square km near the Mediterranean city of Port Said.
