King Abdul Aziz Port Sets New TEU Handling Record In March, Boosts Saudi Maritime Sector

Situated on the Arabian Gulf coast, King Abdul Aziz Port in Dammam stands as the largest port in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, playing a pivotal role in the nation's industrial and economic growth. This port is a cornerstone in enhancing the Kingdom's maritime sector leadership, expanding its transport and logistics capabilities, and fostering economic development. With 43 fully serviced berths capable of handling up to 105 million tons of cargo and containers, the port is equipped with specialized terminals and state-of-the-art facilities designed to manage a diverse range of cargo types.

These operational strengths are in line with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy (NTLS), which seeks to establish Saudi Arabia as a leading global logistics hub connecting three continents. The port's infrastructure includes a variety of support facilities such as a refrigerated cargo station, two cement stations for black and white cement and clinker exportation, a bulk grain station, a raw iron handling station, a marine manufacturing zone, and gas and petroleum platforms. A notable feature is the ship repair facility that houses two floating docks for ships up to 215 meters long. Furthermore, the port's connectivity is enhanced by a railway link to Riyadh Dry Port, facilitating the efficient movement of goods to the Eastern and Central regions of Saudi Arabia.

In an effort to boost its competitive advantage, King Abdul Aziz Port has collaborated with leading national and international companies to establish four integrated logistics parks. Partners include MEDLOG, Abyat, United Electronics Company (eXtra), and Saudi Global Ports Company (SGP). This initiative has expanded the range of services available to stakeholders, including importers and exporters. The introduction of 12 new shipping services in 2023 and five new shipping lines since early 2024 has significantly increased service offerings.

The port's operational excellence was highlighted by record-breaking throughput figures in 2023 and the early months of 2024. In 2023, it handled 2,305,811 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs), representing a 13.10% increase from the 2,038,787 TEUs processed in 2022. March 2024 set a new monthly record with the port managing 289,787 TEUs. These achievements underscore the port's robust infrastructure and its capacity to handle an increasing volume of containers as well as accommodate various types and sizes of vessels.

King Abdul Aziz Port's strategic initiatives and infrastructure enhancements are integral to Saudi Arabia's vision of becoming a global logistics hub. Through continuous improvement and expansion of services, the port is set to further contribute to the Kingdom's economic prosperity and industrial growth.

With inputs from SPA