The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has introduced Maersk’s MECL container shipping service at Jeddah Islamic Port, expanding the port’s international connectivity and service portfolio. The new loop connects Jeddah Islamic Port with major ports in the United States, Morocco, Oman and India, supporting smoother cargo movements for regional and global shippers.
The service links Jeddah with Charleston, Savannah, Houston, Norfolk and Newark in the US, Tangier in Morocco, Salalah in Oman, and Mundra, Pipavav and Nhava Sheva in India, with a capacity of up to 7,000 TEUs. This expanded port rotation enhances options for exporters and importers seeking reliable Red Sea and transatlantic connections.
Strengthening Jeddah Islamic Port’s competitiveness
Mawani noted that adding MECL is part of wider efforts to boost the competitiveness of Jeddah Islamic Port and deepen its network of global shipping routes. By attracting more mainline services, the port aims to improve maritime transport efficiency and offer diversified solutions for cargo owners and logistics providers.
The enhanced connectivity is expected to support trade flows, reduce transit times, and reinforce Jeddah Islamic Port’s position as one of Saudi Arabia’s primary maritime gateways on the Red Sea.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s logistics and hub ambitions
Located on the Red Sea, Jeddah Islamic Port plays a central role in Saudi Arabia’s logistics landscape by linking regional and global trade corridors. The port’s ongoing infrastructure and service development aligns with the Kingdom’s broader ambition to become a leading global logistics hub.
The MECL service addition supports the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which targets upgraded transport networks, higher logistics efficiency and stronger integration with international trade routes. With more direct links to North America, Asia, Africa and the Middle East, Jeddah Islamic Port is set to offer improved connectivity for global supply chains transiting the Red Sea.
