CMA CGM Iron Makes Historic Dual-Fuel Methanol Vessel Call at Khalifa Port
The maritime industry witnessed a significant moment on March 13, 2025, as the CMA CGM Iron, a dual-fuel methanol container vessel, made its historic call at CMA Terminals Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi. This milestone marked the vessel as the first of twelve new dual-fuel methanol boxships to be deployed by CMA CGM in 2025 and 2026, showcasing the company’s commitment to sustainable shipping practices.
Capable of running on both conventional and alternative fuels like bio-methanol and e-methanol, the 13,000 TEU CMA CGM Iron represents a new era in environmentally-friendly maritime transportation.
Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO Ports Cluster at AD Ports Group, emphasized the significance of the vessel’s arrival, stating, “The arrival of the CMA CGM Iron dual-fuel container vessel is a sign of things to come in the global maritime industry. We are committed to providing a viable commercial biofuels infrastructure at Khalifa Port, not only for our shipping customers, but also for clients in our KEZAD economic cities, many of whom are increasingly introducing biofuels in their own operations.”
Christine Cabau Woehrel, Executive Vice President for Assets and Operations at CMA CGM Group, added, “The arrival of the first dual-fuel methanol vessel at Khalifa Port marks a significant milestone in our journey towards Net Zero Carbon by 2050.”
Constructed by South Korean shipbuilder HD Hyundai Samho, the CMA CGM Iron recently made its maiden call at the Port of Singapore, further solidifying its presence in key maritime hubs.
As part of CMA CGM’s commitment to sustainability, the company will introduce additional dual-fuel methanol vessels, including the Cobalt, Argon, Platinum, and others, in the coming years, showcasing their dedication to reducing carbon emissions in the shipping industry.
Partnership for Sustainability
CMA CGM’s collaboration with AD Ports Group extends beyond Khalifa Port, with joint developments in Pointe Noire, Republic of Congo. This strategic partnership underscores both companies’ shared vision for sustainable and efficient maritime operations.
The CMA CGM Iron’s stop in Abu Dhabi was part of the CIMEX1 service, which connects Asia to the Middle East Gulf region, highlighting the vessel’s role in enhancing trade connectivity.
State-of-the-Art Terminal
CMA Terminals Khalifa Port, a joint venture between CMA CGM and AD Ports Group, serves as a crucial hub connecting multiple regions, including Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. With its advanced infrastructure and sustainable technologies, the terminal is equipped to handle the world’s largest container ships, setting new standards for efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Featuring two berths totaling 800 meters in length and sustainable technologies like next-generation cranes and electric RTGs, CMA Terminals Khalifa Port is poised to play a key role in shaping the future of maritime trade.