Abu Dhabi Airports has entered into a landmark joint venture with Jingdong Property (JDP), the infrastructure subsidiary of Chinese e-commerce giant JD.com, to build and manage a cutting-edge logistics hub at the Abu Dhabi Airports Free Zone (ADAFZ).
This strategic collaboration marks JDP’s first project in the UAE, signifying a major investment in the region’s growing logistics and e-commerce sector. The plan includes the development of two massive warehouse complexes—bonded and non-bonded—with a combined gross floor area of over 70,000 square meters.
The state-of-the-art facility will significantly enhance cross-border e-commerce logistics, strengthening cargo handling capabilities across the GCC and MENA region.
According to Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and CEO of Abu Dhabi Airports:
“This partnership supports Abu Dhabi’s strategic vision of becoming a global trade and logistics hub. Combining our logistical strengths with JDP’s advanced infrastructure expertise creates a powerful ecosystem that encourages investment and drives regional growth.”
JD.com, ranked 47th on the Fortune Global 500, operates globally and is publicly listed on the Nasdaq. Its infrastructure division, JD Property, has delivered over 50 major logistics projects across nine countries outside of China since 2012.
Cao Dong, CEO of JD Property, expressed optimism about the project:
“This joint venture is a vital milestone. We appreciate our partner’s trust and are committed to contributing to the UAE’s logistics ecosystem and e-commerce infrastructure.”
He added that the company plans to deepen its collaboration and expand its investments in the region, aiming for mutually beneficial long-term growth.
The new logistics hub will benefit from its proximity to Abu Dhabi International Airport and major transport links, allowing it to function as a multimodal logistics center. This will further amplify Abu Dhabi’s role in the fast-expanding e-commerce space.
As a multi-sector free zone, ADAFZ offers a highly flexible and investor-friendly environment, attracting private-sector companies from diverse industries. The partnership is expected to drive logistics innovation and contribute to Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification goals.
