Jeddah Islamic Port, a key maritime hub in Saudi Arabia, is playing an increasingly vital role in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, a national transformation plan aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing its reliance on oil. Strategically located on the Red Sea, Jeddah Islamic Port serves as a pivotal gateway for east-west and north-south trade routes, enhancing not only Saudi Arabia’s logistics capabilities but also its contribution to the global trade ecosystem.
A wave of foreign investment has swept into Saudi Arabia’s maritime industry, with Jeddah Islamic Port at the heart of this shift. The port’s redevelopment, part of a broader effort to align with Vision 2030, is attracting attention from major international logistics and shipping players.
Aamer Alireza, Chairman of Red Sea Gateway Terminal (RSGT), highlighted the ongoing $1.7 billion development project at the port, saying, “Red Sea Gateway Terminal, along with its partner Mawani, undertook an ambitious program to redevelop key infrastructure. This strategic investment aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, positioning the port as a vital artery for the nation’s maritime ambitions and the global trade ecosystem.”
Industry leaders are also recognizing the potential of Jeddah Islamic Port. Poul Hestbaek, CEO of Folk Maritime, emphasized the importance of collaboration between public entities like Mawani (Saudi Ports Authority) and private companies in achieving Saudi Arabia’s logistics ambitions. “This mix of public and private expertise, both local and international, brings a willingness to drive that vision. And in the center of this, we have Mawani and the Minister of Transport, who must be the glue that brings this knowledge together.”
Global players are also making substantial commitments to the Kingdom’s logistics sector. Maersk Saudi, one of the world’s largest container shipping companies, has made significant investments in Saudi Arabia. “We believe in the vision of the Kingdom,” said Mohammad Shihab, Managing Director of Maersk Saudi. “Saudi Arabia’s market size and strategic location along the Red Sea make it a highly attractive destination for long-term logistics infrastructure development.”
Jeddah Islamic Port’s prime location enables it to serve not only African markets but also eastern trade partners such as India, further enhancing its status as a key node in both regional and global commerce. Chris Hayman, Chairman Emeritus of Sea Trade Maritime Informa Markets, reinforced this perspective, stating, “Saudi Arabia has a fantastic geographical location, well-positioned in the east-west trade routes and north-south. The Saudi ports are extremely well-positioned to take advantage of that.”
As Saudi Arabia advances toward its Vision 2030 goals, the continued development of Jeddah Islamic Port will bolster its standing as a critical hub for international trade. Emerging trade relationships with Africa and India, coupled with increasing foreign investments, are set to solidify the port’s role as a driving force in the global logistics landscape.
