Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Islamic Port is set to significantly boost its global market connectivity with the launch of a new shipping service. This service, announced by the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani), will link Jeddah Islamic Port to four major cities in China—Tianjin, Qingdao, Shanghai, and Guangzhou—as well as Damietta in Egypt. This strategic initiative represents a major advancement in enhancing the Kingdom’s maritime connectivity index and operational efficiency, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s goal to become a global logistics hub.
Key Connections and Capacities of Shipping Service
The new CBS shipping service, operated by the Chinese shipping line NewNew Line, will connect Jeddah Islamic Port with the Chinese ports of Tianjin, Qingdao, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as Damietta in Egypt. This service will offer regular weekly voyages with a capacity of up to 4,000 standard containers, significantly enhancing the flow of goods between these key international locations and Saudi Arabia.
Aligning with National Strategies
This initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to establish the country as a global logistics hub. By improving maritime connectivity, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a central connecting point between three continents, fostering economic growth and strengthening its role in international trade. The strategy also aims to connect ports on the Arabian Gulf coast with those on the Red Sea coast, further enhancing the nation’s logistic capabilities.
Enhancing Jeddah Islamic Port
Jeddah Islamic Port, a pivotal logistics and commercial hub on the Red Sea coast, spans an area of 12.5 square kilometers and features 62 berths. The port is equipped with advanced facilities, including two container handling stations, an integrated logistics village for storage and re-export, general cargo terminals, ship repair and maintenance docks, and marine service berths. Additionally, it has terminals specifically designed to accommodate pilgrims and other visitors, making it a comprehensive maritime gateway for Saudi Arabia.
Recent Developments and Future Prospects
Since the beginning of 2024, Mawani has added 14 new shipping services in collaboration with major global shipping lines, underscoring its commitment to enhancing Saudi Arabia’s maritime infrastructure. The addition of the CBS service supports national exports and imports, bolstering the Kingdom’s maritime capabilities and economic resilience (Port Technology International).
In a bid to promote sustainability, Mawani recently signed an SR30 million ($8 million) contract with Global Environmental Management Services Ltd. (Reviva) to establish a recycling complex for marine and industrial waste at Jeddah Islamic Port. This initiative aims to enhance environmental awareness and build a sustainable maritime sector.
The launch of the new shipping service connecting Jeddah Islamic Port to major cities in China and Egypt marks a substantial leap forward in Saudi Arabia’s maritime and logistics sector. By enhancing connectivity and operational efficiency, this initiative propels Saudi Arabia towards its goal of becoming a global logistics hub, driving economic growth, and strengthening its position in international trade. This strategic development aligns seamlessly with the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy, paving the way for a more sustainable and integrated maritime future.
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