RIYADH: The Saudi Ports Authority, or Mawani, has begun operating the container terminal at Jubail Commercial Port under a concession agreement with Saudi Global Ports, with an investment value exceeding SR2 billion ($532 million).
The commencement of operations comes in implementation of the concession agreement signed between the two parties, which includes developing the infrastructure, upgrading operational equipment, and increasing the length of the quays from 1,000 to 1,400 meters as well as deepening the berths from 14 to 18 meters, increasing the number of ship to shore cranes from six to 10, and increasing the number of rubber-tyred gantry cranes from 13 to 29 automated and environmentally friendly cranes.
Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Ports Authority, Saleh Al-Jasser, stated: “The commencement of operations at the container terminal in Jubail Commercial Port is a result of deepening the partnership with the private sector and confidence in the Kingdom's investment environment. It contributes to achieving the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.”
He added: “The project enhances the Kingdom’s competitiveness as a global logistics hub connecting three continents, supports the growth of supply chains and maritime trade, and strengthens the role of Saudi ports in attracting global shipping lines and the new generation of mega-ships.”
