ABU DHABI : AD Ports Group, a leading global enabler of integrated trade, industry and logistics solutions, has announced the appointment of Dr. Afif Saif Al Yafei as its new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), marking a significant leadership transition as the organisation prepares for its next phase of strategic growth and international expansion.
Dr. Al Yafei joins AD Ports Group from TAQA Transmission, where he served as Chief Executive Officer. He brings more than two decades of executive leadership experience across the infrastructure, utilities and industrial sectors, with a strong background in business transformation, operational excellence, investment management and international growth.
During his tenure at TAQA Transmission, he led a major national infrastructure business and oversaw substantial growth in its asset base and capital investment programme. His professional experience also includes senior leadership positions at Tabreed and ADNOC Gas, along with board-level responsibilities at several corporate organisations.
His expertise spans corporate strategy, governance, business development, digital transformation, organisational development and national talent development. This diverse experience is expected to support AD Ports Group’s continued development as an integrated global trade and logistics platform.
Dr. Al Yafei succeeds Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, who has led AD Ports Group since 2014. Under Captain Al Shamisi’s leadership, the organisation underwent a significant transformation, evolving from a local port operator into an integrated international business spanning ports, maritime, shipping, logistics and economic cities and free zones.
During this period, AD Ports Group substantially expanded its international footprint, building a presence in more than 50 countries across five continents and developing a portfolio of 40 terminals. The Group also strengthened its position in global trade infrastructure through strategic investments, acquisitions and international partnerships.
Commenting on the appointment, AD Ports Group Chairman H.E. Shadi Malak highlighted Dr. Al Yafei’s extensive experience in managing major infrastructure and industrial businesses, noting that his expertise in growth, investment, governance and organisational development would support the Group as it builds on its established foundations and enters its next phase of development.
Under the new leadership, AD Ports Group is expected to continue advancing its integrated business strategy, strengthening its international operations and expanding its role in facilitating global trade and supply chains.
With its diversified portfolio covering ports, maritime services, shipping, logistics, industrial zones and economic cities, the Group remains focused on supporting Abu Dhabi’s ambition to strengthen its position as a leading international trade and logistics hub while contributing to the UAE’s broader economic development objectives.
The leadership transition marks a new chapter for AD Ports Group, building on more than a decade of transformation and international expansion, while positioning the organisation for its next stage of growth in the global maritime and logistics industry.
