Abu Dhabi Terminals partners with Microsoft for AI-enabled container tracking solutions

Abu Dhabi Terminals has partnered with Microsoft as part of the digital transformation plans in store for the emirate’s flagship maritime asset, Khalifa Port.

The partnership will enable enhanced container tracking and autonomous shuttle capabilities across Abu Dhabi Terminal’s Khalifa Port terminal through the deployment of AI services of Azure, Microsoft’s Cloud.

Abu Dhabi Terminals is the management company and operator of Khalifa Port Container Terminal (KPCT), the region’s first, and one of the world’s largest semi-automated deep-water container terminals.

The new technology that will be deployed in partnership with Microsoft Consulting Services, will fuel the introduction of AI-based container smart tracking solutions that will ensure 100 per cent traceability of all handled containers, as well as the potential to launch an autonomous vehicle system.

“By driving innovation through the implementation of Artificial Intelligence and automation, Abu Dhabi Terminals is committed to modernising our port environment, while also dramatically reducing our carbon footprint, and costs, as well as turnaround times for those accessing Khalifa Port, said Ahmed Al Mutawa, CEO of Abu Dhabi Terminals.

“The support of the UAE Ministry of AI and our partnerships with world-leading technology providers such as Microsoft Corporation, not only future proofs our nation’s maritime assets and infrastructure, but enables Abu Dhabi Terminals, and our shareholders at Abu Dhabi Ports, to reap tremendous long-term benefits as we continue this exciting digital transformation journey.”

Arturo Garcia, chief automation officer at Abu Dhabi Terminals added, “AI and Automation Technology are not widely used in the port industry, but we firmly believe in its potential and are convinced that our approach will not only benefit Abu Dhabi Terminals and the UAE, but will extend to the entire shipping industry, transforming the way business is done.”