In a move aimed at streamlining fleet operations and enhancing maritime services in the region, AD Ports Group and Columbia Group have announced the formation of a new joint venture, Noatum – CSM Limited. The partnership brings together two established players in the maritime industry with a shared focus on advancing ship management standards through cutting-edge digital tools and operational expertise.
Based in the UAE, the new venture will oversee the management of AD Ports Group’s own ocean-going fleet while also extending its services to third-party vessels. The collaboration is structured to offer full-spectrum maritime support—from crew and procurement to training and compliance—while leveraging smart fleet technology.
What stands out is the access to Columbia Group’s Performance Optimisation Control Room (POCR), a live digital operations platform designed to monitor and improve vessel efficiency. This system enables predictive maintenance, optimised fuel use, and emissions tracking. With real-time data flowing from vessels, operators can make decisions based on actual performance metrics, not assumptions. It’s less about flashy tech and more about smarter, more informed choices at sea.
Captain Ammar Mubarak Al Shaiba, CEO of the Maritime & Shipping Cluster at AD Ports Group, noted that the move is about expanding operational capabilities while maintaining high-quality service. “This partnership symbolises a pivotal advancement in maritime asset management,” he said. “We are committed to offering a holistic suite of services with exceptional operational competency and expertise.”
The venture fits neatly into AD Ports Group’s broader strategy to diversify and strengthen its Maritime & Shipping Cluster. With regional fleet demands growing and regulations tightening, third-party operators are increasingly seeking comprehensive, data-driven support services. This partnership aims to plug that gap without adding unnecessary complexity.
Mark O’Neil, President and CEO of Columbia Group, echoed the focus on practical results. “Combining Columbia’s global expertise with AD Ports Group’s strong presence in the Middle East will drive operational excellence and innovation,” he said.
For regional clients, the JV promises a localised but globally informed approach. Crew management, procurement, and compliance won’t just be about ticking boxes—they’ll be integrated into a performance model driven by real-world data and decades of experience.
With both companies pooling resources and know-how, Noatum – CSM Limited is set to serve not just as another service provider, but as an operational backbone for vessels navigating an increasingly regulated and efficiency-driven maritime sector.
