Shipping desk: Jeddah Islamic Port, Saudi Arabia’s largest trade gateway, has witnessed a major leap in capacity and efficiency following the completion of the new South Container Terminal, jointly developed by the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) and global logistics giant DP World.
The terminal, inaugurated in 2023, is part of a 30-year concession agreement signed between MAWANI and DP World in December 2019. Under the deal, DP World committed to invest over USD 800 million to modernize infrastructure, deploy advanced port technologies, and enhance overall cargo-handling performance.
As a result of the expansion, the port’s annual container handling capacity has increased from 1.8 million TEUs to 4 million TEUs, making it one of the most advanced and high-capacity terminals on the Red Sea.
The upgraded terminal now features five deep-water berths, new ship-to-shore (STS) cranes, and state-of-the-art automated stacking systems designed to handle the world’s largest container vessels. The facility also includes a digitalized terminal operating system that improves real-time cargo tracking, reduces dwell time, and boosts operational efficiency.
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said the expansion strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a key logistics hub aligned with Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s national strategy to diversify its economy and become a global logistics leader.
Since DP World began operations, vessel turnaround times at Jeddah Islamic Port have improved by more than 20 percent, and overall container throughput has shown steady annual growth. The enhanced capacity is expected to further attract transshipment volumes from the Suez Canal and East African trade routes.
According to MAWANI officials, the project supports the goal of transforming Jeddah Islamic Port into a smart, sustainable logistics hub powered by automation and renewable energy solutions.
