The newly inaugurated terminal is part of an ambitious strategy to enhance the operational capacity of one of the region's busiest ports. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to meet the growing demands of international shipping, offering enhanced operational efficiencies and contributing to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 economic diversification goals. The project, which took over three years to complete, has dramatically expanded Jeddah Islamic Port’s container handling capacity, positioning it as a more competitive gateway for both regional and global trade.
DP World’s collaboration with Mawani focuses on modernising port operations by integrating advanced technology and infrastructure. The development of the South Container Terminal features cutting-edge equipment, including automated cranes, digital systems, and a larger dock for handling a wider range of cargo vessels. The project will also result in a substantial increase in the port's annual container capacity, supporting the Kingdom's aim to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil exports.
One of the terminal’s key attributes is its focus on sustainability. The facility integrates green technologies, such as energy-efficient lighting and waste management systems, which aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader environmental and sustainability goals. The infrastructure improvements include a new logistics area designed to streamline cargo movement and improve turnaround times, which is expected to reduce congestion at the port and optimise throughput.
Saudi Arabia’s strategic location on the Red Sea has long made it a vital link between the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. The expansion of Jeddah Islamic Port strengthens this advantage, allowing the Kingdom to tap into the growing global trade demand, especially in regions where maritime transport is a crucial part of the supply chain. Saudi Arabia has long been committed to enhancing its ports, and this project is a direct response to the rising need for more efficient, scalable port facilities.
The South Container Terminal is also an important component of the Kingdom’s larger plans to improve its overall port infrastructure. The expansion programme is part of a national effort to increase the efficiency of its logistics and transport sectors, which are central to the goals of Vision 2030. By modernising port operations, Saudi Arabia seeks to not only strengthen its position as a global trade player but also to create jobs and enhance economic opportunities across various sectors, including logistics, manufacturing, and tourism.
DP World’s role in the expansion is pivotal, with the company bringing decades of expertise in port management and logistics. This partnership with Mawani is designed to foster greater collaboration between the public and private sectors in developing Saudi Arabia’s infrastructure. The project is expected to drive significant economic growth and position Jeddah Islamic Port as a competitive international maritime hub.
With the new terminal operational, Jeddah Islamic Port’s capacity has been greatly increased, positioning it to handle an even greater volume of container traffic. This comes at a time when global shipping lines are facing increasing demand for faster, more efficient cargo movement. The terminal’s ability to accommodate the largest container ships in service today will ensure its place among the world’s top ports. As a result, Jeddah is set to become a central node in the global supply chain, attracting additional trade routes and fostering the growth of Saudi Arabia’s non-oil economy.
The development is also expected to have a ripple effect across other sectors. As port operations become more efficient, shipping costs are likely to decrease, benefiting industries across the board, including retail, manufacturing, and energy. The increase in container capacity at Jeddah Islamic Port is anticipated to enhance Saudi Arabia’s import and export activity, improving trade relationships with partners in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
The completion of the South Container Terminal is seen as a clear signal of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to modernising its infrastructure and attracting foreign investment. With growing regional and international trade, the Kingdom is positioning itself as an economic powerhouse, leveraging its strategic location, abundant resources, and enhanced logistics capabilities to attract business from across the globe.
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