RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam reported a notable 37.4 percent year-on-year increase in container handling during the first half of 2024, indicating strong growth in the maritime sector.

The port managed 1.53 million standard units in this period, up from 1.11 million units last year. Transshipment containers also surged by 87.87 percent to 37,806 units from 20,124 in 2023, according to data from the Saudi Ports Authority, also known as Mawani.

This progress aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to enhance its logistics and transportation infrastructure, supporting the goals of Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and establish the Kingdom as a global logistics hub. Investments in maritime infrastructure, technology, and strategic partnerships are driving this transformation, solidifying the Kingdom’s role in international trade routes.

Outgoing containers rose by 39.07 percent to 624,710 units, while incoming ships increased by 34.68 percent to 872,445 units, demonstrating robust growth compared to last year’s figures of 449,219 and 647,790 units, respectively. The overall cargo volume at the port grew by 28.75 percent to 24.92 million tonnes from 19.36 million tonnes the previous year. General cargo handling also saw a significant rise, reaching 25.80 million tonnes, a 49.47 percent increase from 17.26 million tonnes in 2023.

Navigational traffic increased by 19.97 percent, with 1,430 ships docking compared to 1,192 vessels the previous year. Vehicle processing surged by 109.82 percent to 363,167 units, up from 173,086 units in 2023. However, passenger numbers declined sharply by 89.11 percent to 4,194 individuals from 38,518 the previous year.

During the year, King Abdulaziz Port initiated several strategic initiatives to enhance its infrastructure, including acquiring 21 coastal and bridge cranes to accommodate advanced, larger vessels efficiently. The port also introduced 80 electric trucks through a partnership between Saudi Global Ports Co. and Sany Global, establishing it as the largest port in the Middle East with such a fleet. The port also expanded its commercial traffic by launching six new shipping services in collaboration with major international lines.

A contract between Mawani and G4 Logistics Services Co. was also signed to establish grain silos and warehouses with an investment of up to SR200 million, covering an area of 100,000 sq. m. This initiative aims to bolster food security in Saudi Arabia.

In recognition of its achievements, King Abdulaziz Port was honored with the “Port of the Year” award at the ShipTek Awards in May, highlighting its pivotal role in the region's logistics and transportation landscape.