Abu Dhabi Ports, the master developer and manager of ports in the UAE, has started initial trial operations of its port community system following the completion of Stage1 of the overall project development.

Maqta Gateway, the first purpose built  Port Community System (PCS) in the Emirates, now offers shipping lines, shipping agents, customs agents, terminal operators and other government agencies a single point-of-access and real-time information across a wide range of services.

The gateway, designed in line with international standards, can be accessed via any online device offering its users an optimal experience through enhanced business processes and greater transparency.

“Maqta Gateway will play a prominent role in facilitating the growing import and export activities, positioning Abu Dhabi as a major business hub in the region,” said Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports.

“Creating unique and simple experiences in the employment of modern technology is essential when introducing new ways of doing business,” added Al Shamisi.

Shipping agents and shipping lines, operating vessels through Abu Dhabi Ports’ flagship Khalifa Port, may begin utilising the new system as part of the initial operational stage. All vessel related activities can be made through Maqta Gateway with continuous status updates on vessel and cargo movements through the port.

In addition, the shipping agents and cargo operators can also use Maqta Gateway for other key services designed to cater for container import and export operations, for example, manifest submissions, issue delivery orders as well as loading and discharge lists.

Mohammed Khadem Al Hameli, deputy director general, General Administration of Customs said: “Abu Dhabi Customs’ main strategy is to improve the services we provide and develop compatible mechanisms along with our strategic partners and customers.”

“The link between our operating system “Dhabi” and Abu Dhabi Ports’ Maqta Gateway will provide our customers direct and efficient services through the port community system as one single window without going back and forth between systems. We are looking forward to expanding our services through Maqta Gateway which will reflect the technological advancement being witnessed here in Abu Dhabi.”

Although Stage1 is specific to shipping lines and shipping agents handling container cargo, all Maqta Gateway users will benefit from the information services available such as vessel schedules, vessel and cargo tracking and other operational information that will help them plan their shipments in advance.

Freight forwarders, clearing agents, and other stakeholders handling all types of cargo will be able to use the system in the subsequent stages, which will also include interaction between Maqta Gateway and other international port community systems.

Users of Maqta Gateway Stage1 can now register to receive training on the system enabling them to experience the range of services offered, a statement said. – TradeArabia News Service