DP World And Mawani Unveil $800 Million South Container Terminal In Jeddah

DP World and the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) have launched the advanced South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port. This development is a key part of DP World's SAR3 billion ($800 million) investment plan to enhance the terminal and solidify Saudi Arabia's status as a major global trade centre. The project has doubled the terminal's capacity from 1.8 million TEUs to 4 million TEUs.

The expansion project, which took three years, has transformed the South Container Terminal into one of the most sophisticated and sustainable in the region. The capacity is expected to reach 5 million TEUs in the future, with more ship-to-shore equipment being added as needed. This aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals of enhancing trade connectivity and diversifying its economy.

Since becoming DP World's first concession outside the UAE in 1999, Jeddah terminal has been vital for regional trade. The recent expansion under a 30-year Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) agreement strengthens Jeddah’s role as a crucial trade gateway. It supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 by boosting trade connectivity and economic diversification.

An official ceremony marked the opening of this modernised terminal. Attendees included Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, DP World Group Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, CEO Abdulla Bin Damithan, along with other senior representatives from DP World and Mawani, government officials, and key customers.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem stated: "Today marks a significant milestone in our long-term strategic investment in Jeddah Islamic Port. This expansion builds on our 25-year legacy in Jeddah and reinforces our commitment to driving trade growth in the region. With this modernised terminal, we are enhancing efficiency, improving supply chain resilience and creating new trade opportunities for the Kingdom and beyond for decades to come."

The terminal's upgrade includes advanced automation and digitalisation to boost operational efficiency. Smart systems are set to significantly reduce gate transaction times, further enhancing productivity at the port.

This development not only strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading trade hub but also ensures that Jeddah Islamic Port remains competitive on a global scale. As demand grows, additional equipment will be deployed to meet future needs.

With inputs from WAM