Global logistics operator DP World has strengthened its operational capabilities at Jeddah Islamic Port with the addition of three new semi-automated quay cranes to enhance capacity and efficiency.
The new cranes, each with a lifting capacity of 65 tonnes, are designed to handle the world’s largest container vessels, enabling faster turnaround times and improved berth productivity.
With the addition, the total number of ship-to-shore cranes at the South Container Terminal rises from 14 to 17, with further expansion plans targeting 22 cranes in the coming phases.
The deployment comes at a pivotal time as shipping activity gradually returns to the Red Sea corridor following recent disruptions. This scaling up supports Saudi Arabia’s broader ambition to position itself as a global logistics hub under its economic diversification strategy.
Advanced infrastructure and automation
Manufactured by ZPMC and currently undergoing commissioning, the cranes integrate into a modernized terminal ecosystem featuring advanced automation technologies. The enhancements aim to improve operational efficiency and accommodate rising container volumes.
The terminal spans a quay length of 2,150 meters, including an 18-meter-deep water berth capable of handling up to five ultra-large container vessels simultaneously. This infrastructure provides a competitive edge in managing high-capacity shipping demands.
The crane addition forms part of an $800 million modernization program that has already doubled the terminal’s annual capacity from 1.8 million to 4 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
Future upgrades are expected to push capacity further to 5 million TEUs, aligning with projected trade growth.
Mohammad Alshaikh CEO DP World KSA
“By expanding capacity and enhancing operational agility, we are helping our customers move goods more efficiently and strengthening the terminal’s ability to accommodate larger vessels and growing container volumes. While recent regional developments have brought new challenges, we are working closely with port authorities, security partners, and shipping customers to ensure safe, reliable operations to keep trade moving across the Red Sea and beyond.”
Operational performance has already shown strong momentum. In 2025, DP World Jeddah handled over 1.3 million TEUs, more than double the previous year’s volumes, as shipping lines resumed Red Sea routes. Weekly vessel calls have also increased to 38, reflecting renewed confidence in the corridor.
Beyond port operations, DP World is expanding its freight forwarding network across the Kingdom, strengthening inland connectivity and offering integrated end-to-end supply chain solutions.
