Jeddah’s South Container Terminal opens

This new development marks a significant milestone in DP World’s SAR 3 billion (US$800 million) expansion project, aimed at enhancing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global trade hub.

“Today marks a significant milestone in our long-term strategic investment in Jeddah Islamic Port,” said Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, group chair and chief executive of DP World.

“This expansion builds on our 25-year legacy in Jeddah and reinforces our commitment to driving trade growth in the region.

“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.”

The expansion, completed over three years, has increased capacity from 1.8 million to 4 million teu. The project also lays the groundwork for a future capacity of 5 million teu with additional equipment to be deployed as demand grows.

The Jeddah terminal, which has been operational under DP World’s concession since 1999, plays a critical role in regional trade. The new upgrades, part of a 30-year build-operate-transfer agreement, support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to boost trade connectivity and economic diversification.

The modernisation integrates automation and digitalisation, including smart systems which reduce gate transaction times from two minutes to just 10 seconds.

Automated yard cranes, an expanded fleet of quay cranes and an increased capacity for reefers – from 1,200 to 2,340 – enhance operational efficiency and support the growing demand for perishable cargo.

In line with its sustainability goals, DP World says it plans to reduce CO₂ emissions by 50% over the next five years, through green initiatives such as electrified cranes and solar installations. Adjacent to the terminal, the 415,000 sqm Jeddah Logistics Park will further strengthen the kingdom’s logistics and warehousing capabilities.