The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has announced the addition of MSC’s new Gulf Shuttle shipping service to King Abdulaziz Port, marking a significant step in enhancing the port’s connectivity and strengthening maritime trade in the region.
The move is expected to enhance the competitiveness of Saudi ports on the global maritime transport map, support the smooth flow of international trade, and improve operational efficiency.
The new service links King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam with ports in Sharjah and Abu Dhabi in the UAE, as well as Umm Qasr in Iraq. It has a handling capacity of up to 3,000 TEUs (20-foot equivalent units).
This initiative is part of Mawani’s ongoing efforts to enhance the Kingdom’s position in global logistics rankings and improve operational efficiency at King Abdulaziz Port. Additionally, it aims to strengthen maritime connectivity and enhance global trade between the Kingdom and Arab ports.
According to the statement, it also supports the growth of national exports and aligns with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub connecting three continents.
Recently, Mawani launched a new maritime shipping service, REDEX, operated by CMA CGM, at the Jeddah Islamic Port. The newly introduced REDEX service links Jeddah Islamic Port with four strategic regional and international ports, Malta Freeport, Port Said, Alexandria, and Aqaba, with a total operational capacity of 2,594 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
Furthermore, the service is expected to facilitate faster and more efficient cargo movement across key Mediterranean and Red Sea trade corridors.
