Metal Park Unveils World's First Pay-As-You-Go Metal Storage Hub in Abu Dhabi

Metal Park has inaugurated the first phase of its AED 110 million Storage Hub in the Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi Free Zone, introducing a pioneering pay-as-you-go storage solution tailored exclusively for the metal industry. This facility is set to enhance storage efficiency and operational flexibility for businesses within the sector.

The Storage Hub is designed to be developed in three phases, ultimately providing a combined storage capacity of 350,000 metric tonnes and 54,000 cubic meters of shelved storage dedicated solely to metals. Phase one encompasses approximately 93,000 square meters and is equipped with 26 overhead cranes capable of handling up to 40 metric tonnes each. Additionally, the facility boasts 55 loading bays compatible with both trucks and automated guided vehicles , enabling a daily load and offload capacity of 48,000 metric tonnes. Advanced features such as vertical storage capabilities, a cantilever truck loading system, and three weighbridges—two measuring 15 meters and one at 30 meters, each with a weighing capacity of 150 metric tonnes—are integrated to optimize operations. Security measures include a gated community setup with round-the-clock surveillance.

Strategically situated within the KEZAD Free Zone, the Storage Hub offers direct access to Khalifa Port via a modular road, seamless connectivity to the Etihad Rail network, and proximity to major highways linking Abu Dhabi to the Northern Emirates and the broader Gulf Cooperation Council region. This strategic positioning facilitates efficient distribution and logistics for metal industry stakeholders.

Abdullah Al Hameli, CEO of Economic Cities & Free Zones at AD Ports Group, highlighted the significance of this development, stating that the launch represents a substantial milestone for both Metal Park and KEZAD's expanding industrial ecosystem. He emphasized the commitment to fostering innovation-driven ecosystems that act as catalysts for industrial growth within KEZAD, thereby contributing to the economic diversification of Abu Dhabi.

Saleh Shahrestani, Chairman of Metal Park, underscored the hub's potential to enhance efficiency and reduce costs for the metal industry. He noted that as the region's first metal fulfillment center, the facility will assist traders and stockists in managing costs amid market volatility, while enabling manufacturers to optimize production space and expand distribution networks.

KEZAD Group, a subsidiary of AD Ports Group, stands as the largest operator of integrated economic zones in the UAE. Spanning 12 economic zones across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafra, KEZAD covers 550 square kilometers and accommodates over 2,100 investors across 17 key industrial sectors. The introduction of Metal Park's Storage Hub is poised to further strengthen KEZAD's position as a pivotal industrial and logistics hub in the region.

The launch of this state-of-the-art Storage Hub is anticipated to significantly bolster the metal industry's infrastructure in the Middle East, providing specialized storage solutions and support services tailored to the sector's unique requirements. By offering a pay-as-you-go model, Metal Park aims to provide businesses with greater flexibility and cost-efficiency in managing their storage needs, thereby enhancing competitiveness and operational agility within the industry.

As the metal industry continues to evolve, the establishment of such innovative facilities underscores the importance of adapting to changing market dynamics and the growing demand for specialized logistics solutions. Metal Park's initiative reflects a strategic response to these trends, positioning the company and KEZAD at the forefront of industrial innovation and service excellence in the region.