AD Ports Group Appoints Dr. Afif Saif Al Yafei as New Group CEO
Shipping Arabia, November 3, 2026 – AD Ports Group has appointed Dr. Afif Saif Al Yafei as Group Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, who has led the Abu Dhabi-based ports and logistics group since 2014.
The leadership transition comes as AD Ports Group continues its development as an integrated global trade and logistics business, with operations spanning more than 50 countries across five continents and a portfolio of 40 terminals.
Dr. Al Yafei brings more than two decades of executive experience across infrastructure, utilities and industrial sectors. His expertise includes corporate transformation, operational excellence, investment, international expansion and corporate governance.
Afif Al Yafei Brings Extensive Infrastructure Leadership Experience
Before joining AD Ports Group, Dr. Al Yafei served as Chief Executive Officer of TAQA Transmission, where he oversaw one of the UAE’s major national infrastructure businesses.
During his tenure, he supervised significant growth in the company’s asset base and capital investment programs, drawing on his experience in managing large-scale infrastructure operations.
His previous leadership positions include senior executive roles at Tabreed and ADNOC Gas. He also serves on several corporate boards, bringing additional experience in corporate strategy, governance and institutional development.
Beyond operational management, his professional background covers digital transformation, investment planning, international business growth and the development of national talent.
These capabilities form part of the leadership experience he brings to AD Ports Group as the company enters its next phase of development.
Leadership Transition Following Mohamed Al Shamisi’s Tenure
Dr. Al Yafei succeeds Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, who has led AD Ports Group since 2014.
During Al Shamisi’s leadership, the company evolved from a local port operator into an integrated global group operating across international trade and logistics.
The appointment represents a transition in the group’s executive leadership following this period of expansion and organizational development.
Shadi Malak, Chairman of AD Ports Group, welcomed the appointment and highlighted Dr. Al Yafei’s extensive experience in leading major infrastructure and industrial companies.
Malak emphasized that the new CEO combines a strong understanding of strategic and operational requirements with expertise in growth, investment, governance and institutional development.
He stated that these capabilities would help AD Ports Group build on its established foundations and advance into the next stage of its development.
AD Ports Group to Continue Global Trade and Logistics Growth
Under Dr. Al Yafei’s leadership, AD Ports Group intends to continue its development as an integrated global trade and logistics business.
The group currently maintains a presence in more than 50 countries across five continents, supported by a portfolio comprising 40 terminals.
Its international footprint reflects the company’s transformation into a diversified organization serving global trade and logistics markets.
As part of its next phase, AD Ports Group has reaffirmed its commitment to customers and stakeholders while continuing to implement its strategic priorities.
The company also intends to maintain its contribution to the UAE’s economic development, in line with the country’s broader national vision and leadership directives.
The appointment places Dr. Al Yafei at the head of the group’s international operations as AD Ports Group continues pursuing growth and institutional development across its global trade and logistics portfolio.
Source: Al Khaleej
