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Abu Dhabi Ports Group has earned significant recognition at the 11th edition of the International Best Practices Awards, organized by the Center of Organizational Excellence Research (COER). The ports operator won eight awards across four categories for 18 best practices, with four practices receiving the highest ratings of six or seven stars. This achievement underscores the company’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in the maritime and logistics sector.
The awards ceremony was hosted by Abu Dhabi Ports Group at KIZAD Group headquarters, bringing together specialists and organizations from various sectors to celebrate excellence and share successful practices. According to the announcement, 62 organizations from 14 countries submitted 112 best practices for rigorous evaluation by a panel of 65 international experts during this highly competitive edition.
Abu Dhabi Ports Group Demonstrates Operational Excellence
The 18 best practices submitted by Abu Dhabi Ports Group represented various business units and sectors within the organization, demonstrating the strength and alignment of its subsidiaries with global excellence standards. The practices distinguished themselves through innovation, measurable impact, and alignment with international best practice frameworks. These achievements reflect the group’s ability to align strategic priorities with execution efficiency across its diverse portfolio.
Iman Al Khalaqi, Senior Vice President of Innovation Management at Abu Dhabi Ports Group, emphasized that the company’s best practices extend beyond operational procedures. She noted that these practices serve as fundamental pillars for the organization’s managerial and operational excellence. Additionally, she highlighted pioneering initiatives such as the “Tawfeer” committee, which enhances efficiency and optimal value creation, and the “IntelliOps” platform for real-time asset management.
Recognition Across Multiple Categories
The awards won by Abu Dhabi Ports Group spanned four primary categories, all receiving exceptional ratings. The group secured top honors in improvement initiatives (seven-star rating), asset management (six-star rating), supplier relations and partnerships (six-star rating), and strategic planning (six-star rating). These ratings represent the highest classification within the competition’s evaluation framework.
However, the recognition extended beyond category awards to include several excellence pioneer awards. Abu Dhabi Ports Group achieved the highest number of practices rated six stars or above with four practices, the highest number rated five stars or above with 11 practices, and the most practices rated four stars or above with 15 practices. Meanwhile, the organization received a Global Best Practices Excellence Certificate for 2025, honoring 11 practices rated five stars or higher.
Digital Transformation and Sustainability Drive Best Practices Success
The 18 recognized practices covered advanced operational areas and digital transformation efforts that position Abu Dhabi Ports Group at the forefront of maritime innovation. These included real-time asset optimization, excellence in centralized planning, and enhanced ship movement services. In contrast to traditional approaches, the company integrated cutting-edge technological solutions to drive measurable operational improvements.
Furthermore, the award-winning practices encompassed transformative sustainability solutions that demonstrate the organization’s environmental commitment. These initiatives included environmentally friendly marine wall panels, electric vehicle fleet deployment, and advanced coating technologies for ship structures. According to Al Khalaqi, these awards reflect the group’s capacity to foster collaboration across its multiple business sectors while delivering sustainable value to stakeholders.
The event provided a platform for learning, standard-setting, and dialogue on how best-in-class practices can drive performance, sustainability, and organizational resilience. Additionally, it showcased how Abu Dhabi Ports Group transforms innovation into tangible and sustainable results, setting new benchmarks for the industry.
Abu Dhabi Ports Group continues to refine its practices to enhance operational excellence and establish industry standards. The organization’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement positions it to maintain its leadership role in the maritime and logistics sector, though specific timelines for future initiatives were not disclosed at the ceremony.
