Abu Dhabi Ports Company (ADPC), the developer of ports and industrial zones, has awarded an Dh2.5 million ($680,454) contract to Parsons to manage the development of Delma Port in the Western Region of the emirate.

Parsons Corporation is an engineering, construction, and technical and management services firm headquartered in Pasadena, California.

Delma Port, which lies 40 km off the coast of the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, is a crucial transportation hub to and from the island. It is used for general cargo and a growing number of tourists visiting the island.

As the former capital of pearl diving, Delma Island has a rich historical and cultural heritage with many leisure facilities, as well as one of the UAE’s most beautiful beaches and landscapes with farms and plantations, growing a wide variety of local produce.
 
“This project is a special undertaking and we are delighted to support ADPC in their effort to transform Delma Port into a well-developed strategic hub,” said Guy Mehula, the Mena president for Parsons after signing the contract with Mohamed Al Shamisi, the acting chief executive of ADPC.

With funds approved earlier this year by the Executive Council, the development of Delma Port will include a 300 m concrete wharf designed for heavy loads and new floating pontoons to create a marina setting for more than 280 boats.
 
The investment will also boost the existing facilities for local fishermen and improve the provision for water sports, as well as supporting ferry services and other public amenities.

Commenting on the deal, Al Shamisi said: "The development of Delma Port is one of the biggest projects in the Western Region, marking another milestone supporting and helping to develop the local communities and the establishment of sustainable businesses which will guarantee diversified economic strength, in line with Algharbia Vision 2030."

A recent report released by the Western Region Development Council revealed that the region is one of the most important economic and investment areas in the UAE.  It represents 60 per cent of the land area of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and contributes 45 per cent of the GDP.

ADPC is a member of the Al Gharbia Development Forum, which has been set up to help define and guide the agenda for business and investors in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi emirate.-TradeArabia News Service