AD Ports Group Increases GFS Ownership to 81% with AED1.1 Billion Commitment

In a significant move, AD Ports Group has successfully secured an additional 30 percent stake in Global Feeder Shipping (GFS) for AED1.1 billion (US$300 million), elevating its total ownership in the Dubai-based shipping leader from 51 percent to 81 percent.

The acquisition was officially revealed on Wednesday, following the Group's earlier purchase of a majority interest in GFS in February 2024.

Exercise of Call Option at Initial Valuation

The original agreement for the first 51 percent stake included a call option that permitted AD Ports Group to expand its ownership before December 2026.

The Group has now activated this option at the previously established Enterprise Value of AED3.67 billion (US$1 billion). The financial resources for this acquisition will come from a combination of debt and asset monetization strategies.

Strategic Role of GFS in Shipping

As the fourth-largest container feeder shipping line globally by capacity, GFS has played a crucial role in linking major trade centers with regional ports via feeder vessel services. Since launching its container feeder shipping division in 2020, AD Ports Group has experienced rapid growth in this segment.

GFS has successfully sustained and expanded cargo connections during global maritime disruptions, benefitting clients throughout the GCC, Indian Subcontinent, Red Sea, Far East, Mediterranean, and Africa.

This acquisition strengthens AD Ports Group's shipping infrastructure, customer base, and international market access.

Enhanced Integration within AD Ports Group

The increased stake allows AD Ports Group to gain more operational and strategic oversight over GFS, while also enhancing cash flow generation.

This strategy is set to further integrate GFS with the Group’s ports, logistics services, economic cities, and free zones, ensuring comprehensive trade and logistics offerings for a global clientele.

Insights from Leadership on the Acquisition

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, stated that this acquisition signifies the company’s dedication to investing in one of its highest-performing assets.

He highlighted that GFS has been instrumental in expanding the Group’s market reach and strengthening customer ties, particularly in the Red Sea and Gulf areas.

Amir Maghami, the CEO of GFS, characterized the acquisition as a pivotal step that aligns GFS more closely with AD Ports Group’s broader operations.

He noted the partnership’s role in facilitating fleet expansion and service enhancements, even amidst challenging market conditions, and expressed optimism for future growth.

Remarkable Operational and Financial Results

In 2025, GFS achieved the transport of 2.8 million Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) and conducted over 700 voyages across 89 ports in 54 countries.

Since acquiring its initial 51 percent stake in February 2024, GFS has reported cumulative EBITDA exceeding AED1.8 billion (US$500 million).

Along with SAFEEN Feeders and Transmar, GFS is central to AD Ports Group’s container feeder shipping strategy, aiding the flow of goods into and out of the UAE.

Maritime & Shipping Cluster Sees Growth

AD Ports Group disclosed a 17 percent rise in container feeder shipping revenue in 2025 compared to the previous year.

The Maritime & Shipping Cluster generated AED10.7 billion in revenue for 2025, reflecting a 33 percent growth year-over-year, while its EBITDA surged by 25 percent to AED2.5 billion.

This cluster accounted for over half of AD Ports Group's total revenue and 45 percent of its overall EBITDA last year, underscoring its significance within the company’s portfolio.

What were the outcomes of AD Ports Group’s announcement?
AD Ports Group confirmed the purchase of an additional 30 percent stake in Global Feeder Shipping (GFS) for AED1.1 billion, raising its ownership to 81 percent.

Why is this acquisition significant?
This deal enhances AD Ports Group’s control over a vital shipping resource, boosts trade connectivity, increases cash flow, and facilitates deeper integration with its ports and logistics services.

How successful was GFS in 2025?
GFS moved 2.8 million TEUs, carried out over 700 voyages, and operated in 89 ports across 54 countries, providing strong financial returns for AD Ports Group.