AD Ports Group Welcomes Afif Al Yafei as New Chief Executive Amidst Strategic Transition

AD Ports Group, the Abu Dhabi-based global operator of ports and free zones, has announced the appointment of Afif Al Yafei as its new group chief executive. He steps into the role previously held by Capt Mohamed Al Shamisi, who led the company's transformation from a local port operator to an integrated global trade and logistics business since 2014.

Dr. Al Yafei joins AD Ports Group from Taqa Transmission, where he served as its top executive. In his prior position, he was instrumental in expanding the company's asset base and overseeing its capital investment program. His extensive leadership experience also includes senior roles at Tabreed and Adnoc Gas, along with board memberships in several corporations.

Shadi Malak, the group's chairman, expressed confidence in Dr. Al Yafei's capabilities, stating, "His expertise in growth, investment, governance and organisational development will support AD Ports Group as it builds on its strong foundations and enters its next phase of development."

The leadership change coincides with AD Ports Group's transition from a publicly-traded company to a private enterprise. The company is currently undergoing delisting from the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange following L’imad's voluntary cash offer to acquire up to 100 per cent of the ports company. L’imad, acting through ADQ, which already held a 75.42 per cent stake, launched the tender offer on August 18 to acquire the remaining shares.

This strategic move is expected to enable AD Ports Group to pursue long-term objectives, including investments and acquisitions, with greater flexibility and without the constraints of public market funding or short-term return expectations. AD Ports Group currently manages approximately 40 terminals in the UAE and maintains a presence in nearly 50 markets worldwide.