MAWANI launches expansion of container terminal at Jeddah Port with SAR 3B investments

Jeddah Islamic Port

The Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI), in collaboration with DP World, launched expansion and development works for the Southern Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port. This initiative aims to boost operational capabilities and increase the port’s handling capacity, with an investment value of SAR 3 billion ($800 million).

In a statement, MAWANI said that this milestone—achieved through a public-private partnership—strengthens Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub in line with Vision 2030. The expansion enhances the Kingdom’s ability to stimulate the transport and logistics industry, drive sustainable development, and support economic growth. Additionally, it contributes to improving Saudi Arabia’s global rankings in logistics and trade indices while facilitating international trade and export activities and strengthening supply chains.

The expansion of the terminal significantly enhances operational performance by boosting container handling capacity from 1.8 million TEUs to four million TEUs.

The modernization efforts include advanced automation, digitization, and smart systems to improve efficiency. Notably, the upgrades have reduced gate processing times from two minutes to just 10 seconds, leveraging Internet of Things (IoT) technology for cargo tracking and AI-powered load analysis.

Moreover, automated & electric yard cranes, supporting sustainability efforts, quay cranes were expended from 14 to 17 by the end of 2025, and refrigerated container capacity was raised from 1,200 to 2,340 units, addressing rising demand for food and pharmaceutical shipments.

DP World is developing a dedicated facility for the inspection of 75 refrigerated containers—the largest of its kind in Saudi Arabia. The Southern Container Terminal now spans a 2,150-meter quay, featuring an 18-meter deep berth, allowing the port to simultaneously accommodate up to five ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs).

As part of its green port initiative, MAWANI and DP World aim to cut CO₂ emissions by 50% over the next five years by utilizing electric cranes and trucks to replace diesel-powered equipment, and green building designs and water recycling systems to improve environmental sustainability and air quality.

Beyond the terminal expansion, DP World is investing in a 415,000-square-meter logistics zone offering state-of-the-art storage, distribution, and shipping solutions. This project will further establish Jeddah Islamic Port as a key trade gateway connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. The integration between the logistics zone and the terminal is expected to streamline cargo handling and enhance overall efficiency. The project is scheduled for completion in Q2 2026.

The development of the Southern Container Terminal is part of MAWANI’s strategic concessions with DP World and Red Sea Gateway Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port. These agreements, worth SAR 9 billion ($2.4 billion), follow the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model. Notably, this represents one of the largest privatization agreements in Saudi Arabia and the largest port concession and operation deal in the Kingdom’s history.

With these expansions, Jeddah Islamic Port is well-positioned to solidify its status as a leading logistics hub in the region, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role in global trade and supply chain networks.