Archives February 2026

Valentine’s Day Gifting: Smart Travel Picks by LUGGIT for Couples on the Move

This Valentine’s Day, couples are being encouraged to move beyond predictable gifting and choose presents that truly journey with them. LUGGIT, a smart travel and lifestyle brand, is spotlighting a curated range of intelligent luggage and bags designed for couples who value innovation, security, and contemporary design in their everyday travels.

Blending cutting-edge technology with sleek aesthetics, LUGGIT’s products are built to complement modern lifestyles—whether navigating busy airports, heading out on date nights, or planning spontaneous weekend getaways.

Featured Valentine’s Day Picks from LUGGIT:

LUGGIT Smart Electric Ride-On Trolley Bag
Designed for frequent flyers and travel enthusiasts, this futuristic trolley features smart electric ride-on functionality for effortless movement through crowded airports. Its premium construction and standout design make travel smoother and more stylish.

LUGGIT Traveler’s Shield – Bio-Matrices Unlocking Sling Bag
Compact, sleek, and highly secure, this sling bag comes equipped with advanced bio-matrices unlocking technology to protect essentials on the go. Ideal for travel days, concerts, casual outings, and date nights.

LUGGIT Signature Shield – Advanced Fingerprint Lock Vegan Leather Multi-Purpose Bag
Crafted from premium vegan leather, this versatile bag combines ethical luxury with advanced fingerprint lock security. Suitable for work, travel, and lifestyle use, it’s designed for partners who value conscious fashion choices.

LUGGIT BioShield Lifestyle Backpack with Advanced Bio-Matrices Unlocking
Built for modern professionals and travellers, this backpack offers biometric security, ample storage, and ergonomic comfort—making it perfect for daily commutes and weekend adventures alike.

This Valentine’s Day, LUGGIT invites couples to gift smarter journeys and shared adventures—celebrating love through innovation, security, and thoughtful design that travels every step of the way.

MNJ Institute Performs 250+ Robotic Surgeries, Boosting Cancer Care and Training

MNJ Institute of Oncology performs over 250 robotic-assisted surgeries strengthening gynaecological cancer care and surgical training

Hyderabad, Feb 06: MNJ Institute of Oncology, a government-run tertiary cancer centre with more than five decades of service, has conducted over 250 robotic-assisted cancer surgeries during the past 30 months, delivered free of cost to patients from economically weaker and middle-income backgrounds.

A significant proportion of these procedures have been performed for gynaecological cancers, which account for a substantial share of the institute’s surgical workload. Over 150 robotic-assisted gynaecological cancer surgeries have been carried out in the last 2 years, primarily for cancers of the cervix, uterus, and ovary—conditions that often require surgery in anatomically narrow pelvic spaces where precision is critical.

According to India’s National Cancer Registry Programme, cervical cancer continues to be among the most frequently diagnosed cancers in Indian women, contributing to a considerable share of cancer-related morbidity and mortality. While cervical cancer remains a major focus, uterine cancer is another condition where robotic-assisted surgery gives surgeons a clear advantage in delivering good outcomes.

Commenting on the institution’s approach, Dr Ramesh Maturi, HOD, Surgical Oncology, MNJ Cancer Hospital said,

“Our experience with the da Vinci surgical system has supported our ability to deliver complex gynaecological cancer surgeries within the public healthcare system. In gynaecological cancers, where surgery is often performed in anatomically narrow pelvic spaces, the robotic platform provides greater control and precision, including the ability to perform nerve-sparing procedures that can help reduce post-surgical sexual and urological complications. As a publicly funded cancer hospital, its use is guided by careful clinical judgement, with robotic-assisted surgery adopted selectively across gynaecological, urological, and upper and lower gastrointestinal cancers to ensure meaningful benefit and sustainable use of resources for the population we serve.”

At MNJ Institute, robotic-assisted surgery has been adopted selectively for complex pelvic procedures, including radical hysterectomies and staging surgeries, especially in cases where standard laparoscopic approaches may be technically challenging. 

Dr Joseph Benjamen, Director, MNJ Cancer Hospital said,

“As a public institution providing specialised cancer care, the responsibility extends beyond introducing advanced technology to ensuring it is used in a manner that strengthens access, consistency, and accountability in patient care.” 

Dr Umakanth Goud and Dr Murlidhar, Professors and Unit Heads, Department of Surgical Oncology at MNJ Institute of Oncology, have been instrumental in the adoption and clinical integration of robotic-assisted surgery, strengthening both patient care and surgical practice at the institute.

Alongside being at the forefront of patient care, MNJ Institute is a premier teaching institution with a strong national reputation that attracts surgical trainees from across India. As a centre of excellence in surgical education, the institute integrates advanced technology to help public hospitals set the tone and standards for the responsible use of modern devices in patient care.

MNJ Institute said its experience reflects how advanced surgical platforms, when applied judiciously within the public sector, can contribute to expanding access to minimally invasive cancer care while strengthening training and institutional readiness.

A Cunning New Series From Guy Ritchie: Prime Video Releases Trailer and Key Art for Young Sherlock

NEW YORK, New York—Feb 06: Prime Video debuted the official trailer and key art for Young Sherlock, starring Hero Fiennes Tiffin (After series) as Sherlock Holmes. From visionary director Guy Ritchie, Young Sherlock is an irreverent, action-packed mystery that charts the legendary origin story of the world’s greatest detective. All eight episodes of the series will premiere on March 4, 2026, exclusively on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and territories worldwide.

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When a charismatic, youthfully defiant Sherlock Holmes meets none other than James Moriarty, he finds himself dragged into a murder investigation that threatens his liberty. Sherlock’s first ever case unravels a globe-trotting conspiracy, leading to an explosive showdown that alters the course of his life forever. Unfolding in a vibrant Victorian England and adventuring abroad, the series will expose the early antics of the anarchic adolescent who is yet to evolve into Baker Street’s most renowned resident.

Previously announced cast members of Young Sherlock include Dónal Finn (The Wheel of Time), Zine Tseng (3 Body Problem), Joseph Fiennes (The Handmaid’s Tale), Natascha McElhone (Halo), Max Irons (Condor) and Colin Firth (The King’s Speech). Guy Ritchie directs the first two episodes and executive produces. The series is created for television and executive produced by showrunner Matthew Parkhill with executive producers Dhana Rivera Gilbert, Marc Resteghini, Simon Maxwell, Ivan Atkinson, Simon Kelton, Colin Wilson, and co-executive producers Harriet Creelman and Steve Thompson. Motive Pictures led physical production for Young Sherlock.

DIVINE, Gurinder Gill Drop ‘Late Knights’ Music Video

DIVINE And Gurinder Gill Release ‘Late Knights’ Music Video, One Of The Most Anticipated Desi Hip-Hop And Punjabi Collaborations Of The Year

Feb 5: Indian hip-hop heavyweight DIVINE has released the official music video for ‘Late Knights’, featuring leading Punjabi-Canadian rapper-singer Gurinder Gill. The track appears on the Indian multi-platinum rapper’s 16-track fifth studio album, ‘Walking On Water’ and marks one of the project’s most anticipated collaborations.

Produced by Zzorawar and Arsh Heer, ‘Late Knights’ is anchored by a dark orchestral sample that sets a somber tone, reflecting themes of success, loyalty and the persistence of insincerity that often accompanies rise and visibility. The record brings together two distinct voices from Mumbai and the Punjabi diaspora, unified by a shared narrative of survival and self-belief.

The accompanying music video, directed by Dimple Kotecha and Shaan Sachdeva, adopts a stark visual language defined by high-contrast lighting and minimal stylization. Through close-ups and wide frames, the video emphasizes the artists’ presence and the solidarity of their inner circles, reinforcing the track’s central idea: resistance to false affection and envy masked as admiration. The recurring refrain, “We don’t melt,” becomes a visual and lyrical motif for emotional resilience.

DIVINE’s verse reflects on a decade-long journey from the streets of Mumbai to nationwide dominance, addressing the erosion of relationships and the role of money as a measure of authenticity. Gurinder Gill follows with a verse rooted in his Punjabi-Canadian perspective, drawing attention to rivalries hidden beneath politeness and celebration. His references to white kurtas and Bombay settings underscore a cultural assertion of belonging without compromise.

DIVINE states, “‘Late Knights’ comes from a very real place. As you grow, you start seeing people differently—who’s genuine, who’s around for the moment. The song is about staying grounded through that and holding on to the ones who’ve been solid from day one. Gurinder brought that same honesty and strength to the record, which made the collaboration feel natural.”

Released via Gully Gang, Walking On Water has been noted for its direct engagement with uncomfortable truths and its expansive sonic palette. The album features contributions from Hanumankind, Riar Saab, MC Altaf and Sammohit, and incorporates samples from iconic Bollywood composers A.R. Rahman and R.D. Burman.

With ‘Late Knights’, DIVINE continues to reinforce his position as one of Indian hip-hop’s defining voices, blending regional influences with a contemporary global sound. The official music video is now available on YouTube and all major digital streaming platforms.

SIMS Hospital strengthens healthcare partnership with Seychelles during President Herminie’s India Visit

Left to right: Dr. Raju Sivaswamy, Vice President, Dr. Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman of SRM Group, President of the Republic of Seychelles, His Excellency Dr Patrick Herminie, Mrs. Veronique Herminie, First Lady of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr. Marvin Nolan Fanny, Hon’ble Minister of Health, Seychelles, Mr. Paul Robin, CEO, SIMS International.

Chennai, Feb 6: His Excellency Dr. Patrick Herminie, Honourable President of the Republic of Seychelles and Dr. Marvin Nolan Fanny, Hon’ble Minister of Health, Seychelles, met Dr. Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman, SIMS Hospital, India, to discuss a collaborative roadmap aimed at strengthening healthcare services in Seychelles through sustainable and long-term healthcare solutions such as super-specialty medical outreach, hospital infrastructure development, digital health integration, workforce support, affordable medicines, and dialysis expansion.

A team of specialists from SIMS Hospital, will be travelling to Mauritius and Seychelles next week to evaluate the existing healthcare systems in Seychelles and assess the way forward in coordination with the Ministry of Health. As part of the discussion, it was also proposed to establish a periodic super-specialty medical camps for patients accessing the Seychelles Government Healthcare System, aimed at enhancing diagnostic accuracy and improving clinical outcomes through advanced medical technology, while building local capacity and strengthening the Ministry of Health’s clinical capabilities to position Seychelles as a regional healthcare leader within the East African zone.

The discussion focused on key areas including the development of an integrated, real-time national digital healthcare network connecting all health centres and hospitals nationwide to improve patient data management, referrals, clinical decision-making, transparency, and service delivery. It also covered the supply of high-quality, cost-effective pharmaceuticals and medical products, supported by the implementation of a cloud-based, real-time inventory management system across pharmacy stores to reduce stock-outs, wastage, and procurement inefficiencies, along with periodic outreach super-specialty medical camps, hospital infrastructure development, healthcare workforce strengthening through nurse recruitment, and the expansion of dialysis services to improve accessibility and continuity of care for renal patients.

The meeting also focused on providing technical advisory support for modernisation of existing government hospital infrastructure, planning and development of new hospitals and primary healthcare facilities, and adoption of global best practices in hospital design, patient safety, and operational efficiency.

In addition, healthcare workforce support was highlighted through the recruitment and deployment of qualified nursing professionals, leveraging SRM’s proven education ecosystem, while supporting skills transfer and long-term capacity building for local healthcare staff.

The meeting also included discussions on expansion of dialysis services through strengthening of the existing dialysis unit with satellite support services, ensuring round-the-clock specialist assistance and improving accessibility and continuity of care for renal patients.

In his comments, H.E. Dr. Patrick Herminie, President of the Republic of Seychelles said, “Our focus is to strengthen public healthcare services and ensure access to quality care for all citizens. Partnerships that support infrastructure, digital health, trained workforce, and specialised services such as dialysis are important steps towards long-term healthcare capacity building in Seychelles.”

Speaking about the meeting, Dr. Ravi Pachamuthu, Chairman, SIMS Hospital, India said, “Healthcare collaboration must focus on strengthening systems from infrastructure and trained professionals to digital networks and affordable access to medicines. We are honoured to engage with the Honourable President and explore opportunities that can contribute to sustainable healthcare capacity for Seychelles.”

Alembic Pharmaceuticals Reports 11% Revenue Growth in Q3 FY26

Mumbai,  Feb 5: Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited reported its consolidated financial results for the third quarter and nine months ended 31st December 2025.

Financial Highlights for Q3FY26

  • Revenue from operations increased by 11% to Rs.1,876 Cr.
  • EBITDA increased by 14% to Rs. 308 Cr 
  • EBITDA Margin at 16% of revenue 
  • Profit Before Exceptional Items and Tax increased by 15% to Rs 205 Cr
  • Pursuant to changes under the new labour code, the Company has recognised a one-time provision of Rs 42 Cr towards employee benefits.
  • Reported Profit After Tax after this one-time provision was at Rs.133 Cr. 

Commenting on the results, Mr. Pranav Amin MD, Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited, said,

Our Q3 performance underscores the sustained momentum across our businesses supported by consistent execution, continued focus on profitability and operating rhythm. We further strengthened our presence in Australia, Canada, Europe, the USA and other key markets delivering an overall growth of 11%.  Our pre-R&D EBITDA margin at 25% remains healthy. We continued to invest around 9% of revenue in R&D to build a robust pipeline for future growth. The integration of Utility Therapeutics progressed well, and we are working towards launch of PivyaTM in quarter 4 positioning us to expand our footprint in branded drugs in the US and create new avenues for sustainable growth. 

Operational Highlights 

India Branded Business

  • India Branded Business delivered a 6% YoY growth, reaching Rs 652 Cr. in revenue for the quarter.
  • Gynaecology, Ophthalmology and Animal healthcare segments supported the growth for the quarter.
  • Anti-infective segment grew in line with market performance.
  • Successfully introduced 4 new products during the quarter.

International Business

  • US Generics grew by 6% to Rs. 553 Cr. for the quarter.
  • 2 Launches in the US market during the quarter.
  • Ex-US International Generics grew by 36% to Rs. 406 Cr. for the quarter.
  • 7 ANDA approvals received during the quarter, 232 Cumulative ANDA approvals. 

API Business

  • API business grew by 2% to Rs. 264 Cr. for the quarter. 

Earnings Call: Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited will host an investor call at 4:30 pm IST on February 5, 2026, where the senior management will discuss the Company’s performance and answer questions from participants. Please dial the numbers provided below ten minutes ahead of the scheduled start time to participate in this conference call. The dial-in number for this call is +91 22 6280 1411/ +91 22 7115 8312. Other toll numbers are listed in the conference call invitation, which is posted on the Company website www.alembicpharmaceuticals.com. The operator will provide instructions on asking questions before the start of the call.

M-Now Expands to Patna, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad with 30-Minute Delivery

Bengaluru,  Feb 5: Myntra today announced the expansion of its hyper-speed fashion delivery service, M-Now, to four Tier-2 cities  Patna, Jaipur, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad, taking its footprint to 10 cities across India. By introducing the M-Now service starting 30-minutes in these cities,  Myntra is tapping into the rapidly rising demand for speed-led convenience for premium and trend-first selections beyond metros. Powered by 87+ dark stores, Myntra is doubling down on strengthening its delivery grid and assortment depth, bringing customers closer to international and homegrown brands and styles.

Customers across these newly expanded tier-2 markets now have access to over 500 brands and 10,000+ styles, broadening their choice at speed. Early traction during the pilot phase in select pincodes has been highly encouraging, with shoppers showing a strong interest in Women’s Western WearWomen’s Indian WearMen’s Casual Wear, Men’s and Women’s Inner Wear and Lounge Wear and Beauty and Personal Care. This momentum accelerated during the Diwali period last year, with these cities witnessing a 2X spike in orders, highlighting the growing demand for premium lifestyle choices at hyper-speed delivery in these markets. Brands that emerged as popular choices in these cities include Levi’s, United Colors of Benetton, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Vero Moda, ONLY, MANGO, NEXT, Jockey, Metro, Mochi, L’Oréal and Maybelline.

M-Now’s expansion beyond metros, where it has been adopted for last-minute trend-first and branded fashion, beauty and lifestyle needs,  will be towards meeting the evolving needs of customers across the country. Myntra’s presence spans 98% of India’s serviceable pincodes, and over 70% of new customers who joined the platform in 2025 are from non-metro markets. Customers from these regions showed high demand for categories like ethnic wear, western wear, lounge wear, inner wear essentials like briefs and vests, wedding collections, beauty essentials, and sportswear.

Speaking on the expansion, Maneesh Kumar Dubey, Vice President, Category Management, Myntra, said,

“ As fashion-forward shoppers, especially Gen Z, prioritize instant gratification, the demand for immediate fulfillment, from festive wear to everyday essentials is rising. By delivering trends in minutes, we’re helping brands meet the ‘instant’ expectations of Gen Z. The expansion into Bharat reflects Myntra’s category-defining approach to hyper-speed fashion delivery, enhancing M-Now’s capability to keep pace with rapidly evolving consumer expectations around speed and convenience. The enthusiastic adoption during our pilot reinforces the significant headroom for growth as we scale M-Now across the country and shape the future of convenience-led fashion shopping in India.”

M-Now’s expansion into these cities further strengthens Myntra’s commitment to democratising premium brand access and speed-led convenience for shoppers in India’s emerging markets. As hyper-speed delivery becomes a defining expectation among digital-first shoppers, M-Now is set to play a central role in Myntra’s ambition to build a nationwide, fashion-first, convenience-led ecosystem, strengthening its position in India’s evolving e-lifestyle landscape.

Punjab & Sind Bank Partners with Chennai SHGs to Boost Women Empowerment

Chennai, Feb 5: Punjab & Sind Bank organised a Self Help Group  Interaction Programme at Ramada, Chennai, on February 2, 2026, under the Chennai Zone, aimed at strengthening engagement with women-led grassroots enterprises and understanding the on-ground experiences of SHG members.
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The programme was inaugurated by Shri Swarup Kumar Saha, Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Punjab & Sind Bank. Around 100 SHG members from across the Chennai Zone participated, sharing their experiences, challenges, and expectations related to credit access, loan processing, and grievance redressal.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Swarup Kumar Saha highlighted the Government of India’s initiatives for women empowerment and entrepreneurship, and emphasised the importance of direct interactions in shaping responsive banking solutions.
“Self Help Groups are a powerful force in driving financial inclusion and women-led economic growth. Through continuous engagement and simplified processes, Punjab & Sind Bank remains committed to empowering SHGs and supporting them in scaling their entrepreneurial aspirations,” said Shri Swarup Kumar Saha, MD & CEO, Punjab & Sind Bank.
Several SHG members appreciated the Bank’s customer-friendly approach, citing the support, accessibility, and responsiveness of branch officials, which has strengthened their confidence to pursue entrepreneurial activities.
During the interaction, Shri Saha assured participants that concerns related to the ALI loan facility would be examined. He also announced a six-month waiver on processing and documentation charges, subject to receipt of a formal proposal from the Zonal Office, reaffirming the Bank’s commitment to SHG empowerment.
Emphasising financial safety, he cautioned members against digital frauds and impersonation scams, underscoring the Bank’s focus on customer protection. Appreciating the quality of SHG-made food products, Shri Saha encouraged members to expand their business activities and conveyed his best wishes for their sustained growth.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks followed by High Tea, reaffirming Punjab & Sind Bank’s commitment to financial inclusion, women empowerment, and holistic SHG development.

Delhi hosts biggest-ever State Para-Athletics Championships; over 1,000 athletes to compete

State Para-Athletics Championships

New Delhi, Feb 5: The 3rd Delhi State Para-Athletics Championships 2025–26 commenced on Thursday at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi, with over 1,000 para-athletes expected to take part during the three-day championship, reflecting the expanding scale of para-sports in the national capital.

Organised by the Divyang Para Sports Association of Delhi (DPSA Delhi), the championships will run till February 7, featuring track and field events across Under-12, Under-17 (Sub-Junior), Under-19 (Junior) and Above-19 (Senior) categories.

The opening ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including Shri Divesh Chandra Srivastava (IPS), Special Commissioner of Police, Delhi Police; Ankit Singh (IPS), DCP, Dwarka; and Neeraj Basoya, MLA (Kasturba Nagar). Shri Satya Babu, Director of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI), Shri V K Dubey – Chairman – VKDL NPA Advisory Council and member of Hindi Advisory Committee, Home Ministry was also present, underscoring institutional support from the national paralympic body.

Senior office-bearers of the Delhi Paralympic Committee, including President Parul Singh, Vice-President Gaurav Choudhary and Treasurer Lalit Kumar, were present throughout the opening day.

Addressing the gathering, Parul Singh, President, Delhi Paralympic Committee, said the championships play a critical role in strengthening the competitive pipeline for para-athletes.

State Para-Athletics Championships

“The scale of participation in this championship is extremely encouraging and reflects the determination of para-athletes across age groups. Their zeal, courage and commitment to sport are deeply inspiring. As an organisation, we remain committed to doing our utmost to create sustained opportunities, competitive exposure and a supportive environment that enables athletes with disabilities to realise their full potential,” she said.

MLA Neeraj Basoya highlighted the importance of translating policy intent into on-ground opportunities.
“Schemes like Divyangjan Kaushal Yojana and Divyang Sahara Yojana reflect a shift towards empowerment through self-reliance. Sporting platforms like this provide confidence, visibility and opportunity to athletes with disabilities,” he said.

Competitions will continue over the next two days, with para-athletes vying for state honours and progression to higher levels of competition.

AD Ports Group Signs 30-Year Agreement with Aqaba Development Corporation to Manage and Operate Aqaba Multipurpose Port in Jordan

Aqaba, Jordan / Abu Dhabi, UAE – Feb 5: AD Ports Group (ADX: ADPORTS), a leading global enabler of integrated trade, industry and logistics solutions, today signed a 30-year concession agreement with Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) to manage and operate the Aqaba Multipurpose Port, Jordan’s only and exclusive general cargo and multipurpose seaport, strengthening the Group’s investments in the coastal city’s logistics infrastructure.

AD Ports Group Signs 30-Year Agreement with Aqaba Development Corporation to Manage and Operate Aqaba Multipurpose Port in Jordan

The agreement will establish a Joint Venture to manage and operate the port, with AD Ports Group holding 70% ownership and Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC) holding the remaining 30%. Under the terms of the agreement, AD Ports Group will invest a total of AED 141 million (USD 38.4 million) in the Joint Venture, in addition to bringing extensive port development and operational expertise to the transaction. The Group anticipates to formally assume operations of the port in August of this year.

The signing ceremony was held at the headquarters of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) in Aqaba, in the presence of Counselor Hamad Al Matrooshi, Chargé d’Affaires of the UAE Embassy in Amman; H.E. Mr. Shadi Majali, Chief Commissioner of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority; and Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director & Group CEO of AD Ports Group.

The agreement was signed by H.E. Hussein Safadi, CEO of Aqaba Development Corporation; and Ahmed Al Mutawa, Regional Chief Executive Officer of AD Ports Group.

Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Managing Director and Group CEO, AD Ports Group, said“Today’s signing represents a continuation of the strong and enduring economic cooperation between the two countries, including the development initiatives implemented by AD Ports Group in Aqaba City. This aligns with the directives of our wise leadership to strengthen cooperation with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and to support the Kingdom’s vision of transforming the Port of Aqaba into a leading commercial gateway in the Red Sea region.”

He added: “This agreement further strengthens AD Ports Group to drive long-term, transformative economic impact in the region, enabling further business growth in support of the aspirations of our partners in Jordan. We extend our appreciation to our partners at the Aqaba Development Corporation for their confidence in AD Ports Group as a strategic partner in driving growth in Aqaba City and contributing to the advancement of its economic ecosystem. We look forward to further strengthening our long-term partnership, founded on collaboration to achieve shared interests and mutual benefits.”

H.E. Mr. Shadi Majali, Chief Commissioner of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), commented: “This strategic partnership represents a key milestone in advancing Aqaba’s role as a competitive and integrated economic zone. The development of the Aqaba Multi-Purpose Port, in collaboration with AD Ports Group, reinforces ASEZA’s mandate to create an enabling regulatory and investment environment that supports efficient trade, high-value logistics services, and sustainable economic growth.

This project will enhance Aqaba’s attractiveness as a regional logistics, industrial, and tourism hub, while strengthening connectivity with regional and international markets. It also reflects the effectiveness of close coordination between national institutions, the private sector, and international partners in delivering transformative projects that generate employment, stimulate investment, and contribute to long-term economic resilience.

ASEZA remains fully committed to facilitating this project through streamlined procedures, investor-friendly policies, and continuous support, ensuring that Aqaba continues to serve as a strategic gateway for Jordan and the wider region.”

H.E Hussein Safadi, CEO of Aqaba Development Corporation, stated: “We look forward to working with AD Ports Group, ADC’s strategic partner, to further develop and position Aqaba Multi-Purpose Port as a central trade and transport hub in the upper Red Sea region. Leveraging AD Ports Group’s expertise, global connectivity, digital trade solutions, and its expanding regional ports and maritime network, Aqaba is set to continue its rapid evolution into a world-class logistics and trade hub that generates sustainable economic growth. This collaboration strengthens Aqaba’s ecosystem across logistics, tourism and port services, we are pleased to welcome this important step forward with AD Ports Group.

We are confident that this partnership will play a pivotal role in driving sustainable economic growth for Aqaba and the Kingdom as a whole, and we are pleased to welcome this important milestone with AD Ports Group as we move forward together in delivering a world-class logistics and trade hub.”

The Port of Aqaba is situated at the crossroads of three continents and is Jordan’s dominant gateway for foreign trade, handling about 80% of the country’s exports and 65% of its imports. Aqaba is also a key transit point for the trade of Jordan’s neighbours, including Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The Aqaba Multipurpose Port handles a diverse range of cargo, including general cargo, grains, livestock, Ro-Ro, and project cargo. The port has an annual handling capacity of 11 million tonnes, supported by nine berths, a quay length of 2 km, and a draft of 13.5 metres. In 2025, the terminal handled over 5.3 million tonnes of cargo and nearly 85,000 car equivalent units (CEUs) of Ro-Ro imports.

The Aqaba Multipurpose Port, marks AD Ports Group’s largest infrastructure investment in Jordan to date. The Group has worked closely with ADC since 2021 to develop Aqaba’s tourism, transport, logistics, and digital trade infrastructure. This includes the development and operation of the Aqaba Cruise Terminal, enhancing the city’s connectivity as a regional cruise destination, and the Maqta Ayla Joint Venture, which is building a digital Port Community System (PCS) to streamline cargo processing and strengthen Aqaba’s role as a modern maritime hub.

In January 2025, AD Ports Group appointed MAG Group Holding, a leading UAE-based real estate developer, to lead the first phase of development of Marsa Zayed, a 3.2 million m² beachfront tourism and business community in Aqaba, designed to position the city as a regional tourism centre and gateway to the Red Sea.

Furthermore, in February 2025, the Group secured a landmark contract with Jordan Customs Department to manage and operate the Al Madouneh Customs Centre in Amman, the centre aims to streamline cross-border trade, reduce clearance times, and enhance supply chain efficiency, aligning with global standards for trade facilitation.

With the addition of Aqaba Multipurpose Port, AD Ports Group expands its global portfolio to 35 ports and terminals, spanning across the UAE, Jordan, Spain, Egypt, Syria, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Tanzania, Angola, and the Republic of the Congo.