The new South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port, developed by DP World in collaboration with the Saudi Ports Authority, marks a significant step in modernizing and expanding Saudi Arabia’s maritime logistics infrastructure. This ambitious project strengthens Jeddah’s position as a vital trade hub, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives for economic diversification and trade expansion.

Investment and Capacity Expansion

The expansion, backed by a SR3 billion ($800 million) investment, has substantially increased the terminal’s handling capacity:

• Previous Capacity: 1.8 million TEUs
• Current Capacity: 4 million TEUs
• Future Potential: 5 million TEUs

Key Features and Technological Advancements

The project integrates cutting-edge automation and digitalization to enhance efficiency and operational effectiveness:

• Gate Processing: Reduced from 2 minutes to just 10 seconds per container.
• IoT & AI Integration: Enhanced cargo tracking, record-keeping, and workflow automation.

Infrastructure Enhancements

To accommodate increasing trade volumes and larger vessels, significant upgrades have been implemented:

• Quay Cranes: Increase from 14 to 17 by late 2025, with a total of 22 planned.
• Refrigerated Container Capacity: Doubled from 1,200 to 2,340, addressing rising demand for perishable goods.
• Inspection Facility: The largest in Saudi Arabia, capable of inspecting 75 refrigerated containers simultaneously.
• Ship Accommodations:
  • Quay Length: 2,150 meters
  • Depth: 18 meters
  • Berthing Capacity: Can handle five ultra-large container ships simultaneously.

Sustainability Initiatives

As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, the project aims to reduce CO₂ emissions by 50% within the next five years, integrating green technologies and efficient logistics practices.

Jeddah Logistics Park: A Supporting Development

Alongside the terminal expansion, the upcoming Jeddah Logistics Park, covering 415,000 square meters, will enhance cargo movement and trade efficiency. The facility, set for completion by Q2 2026, will be the largest integrated logistics hub in Saudi Arabia.

Summary of Key Developments

Category	Details
Total Investment	SR3 billion (~$800 million)
Capacity Increase	1.8M TEUs → 4M TEUs (Future: 5M TEUs)
Gate Processing Time	Reduced from 2 minutes to 10 seconds
Quay Cranes	14 → 17 by 2025 (Planned: 22)
Reefer Capacity	1,200 → 2,340 containers
Inspection Facility	Largest in Saudi Arabia, 75 containers at once
Quay & Depth	2,150m quay, 18m depth
Berthing Capacity	5 ultra-large container ships simultaneously
CO₂ Reduction Target	50% within 5 years
Jeddah Logistics Park	415,000 sqm facility (Completion: Q2 2026)

Strategic Importance

The expansion of the South Container Terminal solidifies Jeddah’s role as a key gateway for global trade, boosting operational efficiency and sustainability. By significantly enhancing handling capacity, streamlining cargo processing, and integrating state-of-the-art logistics solutions, the project contributes to Saudi Arabia’s broader vision of economic growth and regional trade leadership.