The CMA CGM Iron has made history as the first dual-fuel methanol container vessel to dock at CMA Terminals Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi. This milestone strengthens the collaboration between AD Ports Group and CMA CGM Group in maritime decarbonization.
Built by Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries, the CMA CGM Iron operates on both conventional fuels and alternative bio-methanol and e-methanol. Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO of Ports Cluster, AD Ports Group, stated: “The arrival of the CMA CGM Iron signals a new era in the global maritime industry. AD Ports Group is committed to developing biofuel infrastructure at Khalifa Port to support sustainability goals.”
Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President at CMA CGM Group, added: “This marks a significant step towards our Net Zero Carbon target by 2050, positioning Khalifa Port as a key sustainable hub.”
CMA CGM, a global logistics leader, is a strategic partner of AD Ports Group. The CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, inaugurated in December 2024, increased the port’s capacity by 23%. The two companies are also developing a multipurpose terminal in Pointe Noire, Republic of Congo.
With a 13,000 TEU capacity, the CMA CGM Iron is the first of 12 dual-fuel methanol vessels planned. The fleet highlights CMA CGM’s commitment to sustainable shipping and innovation in partnership with Hyundai Samho Heavy Industries.
Strategically located between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, CMA Terminals Khalifa Port features state-of-the-art technology, an annual capacity of 1.8 million TEUs, and seamless connectivity to the Etihad Rail network. Its eco-friendly facilities earned the MENA Green Building Award in 2022, reinforcing its role as a key global trade hub.
