UAE’s DP World, Saudi Ports Authority unveil SR3 billion terminal in Jeddah

Dubai: Dubai’s DP World and Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) have unveiled a new state-of-the-art South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port.

The multinational logistics company said on Friday that this marks a significant milestone in DP World’s SR3 billion ($800 million) expansion and development programme to upgrade the terminal.

The three-year project more than doubled the South Container Terminal’s capacity from 1.8 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to 4 million TEUs. The companies said the expansion paves the way for a future capacity of 5 million TEUs, with additional ship-to-shore equipment to be deployed as demand grows.

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said, “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 regional trade growth.”

He added, “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.”

DP World’s Jeddah terminal, its first concession outside the UAE since 1999, has been vital to regional trade. Under a 30-year BOT agreement, its latest expansion strengthens Jeddah’s role as a key trade hub, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. 

Saudi Transport Minister Eng attended the opening ceremony with Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, DP World Chairman Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, DP World GCC CEO Abdulla Bin Damithan, and senior officials from DP World, Mawani, and key stakeholders.

How has the terminal been improved?

According to DP World, the modernisation of Jeddah’s terminal integrates advanced automation and digital systems to enhance efficiency. Smart technology has reduced gate processing times from two minutes to just 10 seconds, while IoT and AI-powered systems have improved cargo tracking and record-keeping systems.

Moreover, DP World has introduced new automated and electric yard cranes, with the number of quay cranes set to increase from 14 to 17 by late 2025, reaching 22 as the terminal expands to handle 5 million TEUs. 

In response to growing demand for perishable goods like food and pharmaceuticals, DP World has doubled the terminal’s refrigerated container capacity from 1,200 to 2,340. A new inspection facility, the largest in Saudi Arabia, will check up to 75 reefers simultaneously. 

The terminal features a 2,150-metre quay, including an 18-metre-deep section capable of simultaneously accommodating five ultra-large container ships. 

As part of its sustainability strategy, DP World aims to cut CO₂ emissions at the terminal by 50 per cent over the next five years. Adjacent to the terminal, DP World is developing Jeddah Logistics Park, the largest integrated facility in Saudi Arabia. Spanning 415,000 square metres, it will provide advanced warehousing, distribution, and freight forwarding services. Linked directly to the terminal, it will improve cargo movement and efficiency, with completion expected by Q2 2026.