Abu Dhabi-based AD Ports Group is expanding its global logistics footprint with the acquisition of German freight forwarder MBS Logistics in a deal valued at AED300m ($82m).

The transaction will give AD Ports full ownership of MBS Logistics’ core business, excluding its joint ventures.

MBS operates an asset-light freight forwarding business focused on Germany and Central Europe, while also maintaining networks across China, Vietnam and the US.

The acquisition will sit within AD Ports’ logistics arm Noatum Logistics, which has been accelerating its international growth strategy through a combination of acquisitions and organic expansion.

The latest move gives the UAE group a stronger foothold in Europe’s largest economy and adds direct exposure to major trade corridors linking Europe with Asia and the transpacific market.

Jochen Thewes, recently appointed chief executive of AD Ports’ logistics cluster, said the acquisition comes at a time when customers are seeking more resilient and better connected supply chains.

“Bringing MBS Logistics into our ecosystem is the right move at the right time,” Thewes said. “It provides us with an established operating platform with deep expertise and immediate access to key Central European and global logistics corridors.”

MBS Logistics operates 26 offices worldwide with more than 450 employees, covering air, ocean, rail and road freight forwarding, alongside project cargo, customs, contract logistics and time-critical transport services. The company’s customer base spans industries including automotive, aerospace, retail, engineering, healthcare and consumer goods.

Completion of the acquisition remains subject to EU regulatory approval and is expected during the second half of 2026.