Mina Zayed

In 1972, a vital artery began pulsing in Abu Dhabi’s heart. Mina Zayed, also known as Zayed Port, officially opened. This wasn’t just another port. It was a testament to vision, named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the former President of the United Arab Emirates. Mina Zayed quickly became Abu Dhabi’s main trade gateway. For decades, Mina Zayed served as the primary port. It facilitated the flow of goods and fueled the city’s growth. The port covers a vast 535 hectares. It boasts 21 berths, capable of accommodating vessels of varying sizes. The berths have depths ranging from 6 to 15 meters. Their total length is a staggering 4,375 meters. In 1982, recognizing the rise of container shipping, Mina Zayed established a dedicated container terminal. This 41-hectare terminal had a storage capacity of 15,000 TEUs. Five 40-tonne cranes served the four deep-water berths. This development significantly boosted Mina Zayed’s throughput. By 1998, container volume had increased by 34%. General cargo traffic was up by 25% compared to the previous year. The port’s capabilities further expanded with the addition of a 15,000-ton cold store in 1999. This allowed Mina Zayed to handle a much larger volume of chilled, cool, and frozen goods. As Abu Dhabi looked towards its Economic Vision 2030, Mina Zayed played a crucial role. It supported the government’s diversification efforts. Eventually, container traffic shifted to the new Khalifa Port in Taweelah. This transition completed in 2012. This allowed Mina Zayed to focus on a new chapter. Mina Zayed is being redeveloped as a luxury cruise ship terminal. This transformation reflects Abu Dhabi’s evolving identity as a hub for tourism and leisure. Mina Zayed’s story continues. It stands as a symbol of Abu Dhabi’s dynamic spirit. From a bustling trade hub to a luxurious cruise destination, Mina Zayed remains an integral part of Abu Dhabi’s vibrant narrative.