Abu Dhabi Ports is offering a three-month rent deferment for the second quarter of the year for its customers as part of the relief measures aimed at curbing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on their operations.
The package also includes a freeze on late payment penalties and an exemption from Tawtheeq fees.
Measures have also been introduced for new investors, including a waiving of application fees, a 25 percent reduction in land lease rates for the first year, an exemption on Tawtheeq fees and a relinquishing of land fixing fees.
“In line with the Government’s effort to extend relief to businesses during these exceptional economic circumstances, Abu Dhabi Ports is taking necessary steps to help our industrial and economic zone customers overcome the current challenges brought on by the spread of coronavirus,” Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, Abu Dhabi Ports Group CEO, said.
The relief measures are being launched on the back of a 25% waiver on rentals for new customers at Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi, KIZAD.
Other benefits under the government relief package include exemptions until the end of the year on commercial real estate registration, subsidised utilities for commercial and industrial activities a AED3 billion allocation for SME’s credit guarantee programme, as well as waiver of performance guarantees of up to AED50 million for start-ups.
Recognising the need for solidarity in times of crisis, global ports have joined together under the banner of Abu Dhabi Ports’ “Horns of Hope” initiative to show support for those engaged on the front lines with the coronavirus pandemic.
The initiative calls on all ships in harbours around the world to sound their horns in 15-second bursts each evening, in recognition of the efforts of maritime, healthcare, and critical sector personnel, who are working diligently to ensure their respective communities remain safe and healthy.
Similar efforts have been observed in a number of ports across Europe, such as the Port of Antwerp, Rotterdam, Vauban, Monaco, and Barcelona, in addition to Ports in Germany.—World Maritime News
