DP World: Powering Global Trade and Logistics

Global trade is continuously evolving due to changing consumer demands, technological advancements and fluctuating geopolitical relationships. Organisations must adapt rapidly to remain responsive and competitive in what is a volatile landscape. 

In a bid to cure some of the headaches facing complex supply chains, logistics giant DP World and the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) have revealed the newly-upgraded South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port.

Doubling capacity from 1.8 million to four million TEUs (with future potential for five million TEUs) is a key element of the three-year, US$800m project. The terminal can accommodate up to five ultra-large container vessels at the same time and spans a total quay length of 2,150 metres.

It will also support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of boosting trade connectivity and economic diversification.

His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, stated at the opening ceremony: “Today marks a significant milestone in our long-term strategic investment in Jeddah Islamic Port. 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 official opening ceremony was attended by Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistic Services His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser; DP World Group Chairman and CEO, His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem; and Abdulla Bin Damithan, CEO and Managing Director of DP World GCC.

A bold expansion

The expansion of the South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port is set to secure Saudi Arabia’s position as a leading global trade gateway, supporting global supply chains with improved container handling and reduced congestion. 

The terminal will also streamline operations, improve accuracy in shipment management and reduce turnaround times through the integration of smart systems, AI-powered cargo tallying and IoT-enabled cargo tracking. These smart systems will reduce gate transaction times from two minutes to ten seconds.

Electrified and automated cranes have been introduced to help enhance supply chain optimisation. By the end of 2025, the terminal will also feature 17 quay cranes (up from 14). 

Meanwhile, DP World is also developing Jeddah Logistics Park – which stands at 415,000 sqm and is set to open in Q2 2026 – to enhance its warehousing, distribution and freight forwarding capabilities. This will improve the efficiency of supply chain networks to support more reliable and faster movement of goods between Africa, Asia and Europe.

In a LinkedIn post, Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem further explained: “Following a three-year expansion of the South Container Terminal, capacity has more than doubled to four million TEUs. This development also brings cutting-edge modernisation, integrating smart technology and AI-powered systems. Automated yard cranes and gates are streamlining operations, enhancing efficiency and reliability.”

“Jeddah was DP World’s first terminal concession outside the UAE, and today, it reaffirms its role as a vital hub for modern trade, a centre for innovation and a testament to support Saudi Vision 2030.

"As part of our US$800m (SAR 3 billion) investment, we are paving the way to five million TEUs and bringing in a new era of maritime logistics. By creating new trade opportunities and generating high-value jobs, we are empowering people and businesses to thrive.”

The importance of sustainability

DP World is committed to reducing CO₂ emissions at the South Container Terminal in the next five years by 50% by applying several initiatives, such as:

• Electrification of yard cranes and trucks
• Solar panel installations
• Floating solar platforms
• Green building designs
• Water recycling systems 

By implementing these measures, DP World will help to minimise carbon footprints in transportation and logistics, improve air quality and ensure the Jeddah terminal can set a benchmark for sustainable port initiatives.

Supporting Vision 2030?

The improvement of Jeddah’s South Container terminal will strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a global trade and logistics hub, therefore supporting the country’s Vision 2030.

Launched in 2016, the government programme was launched in 2016 and strives to enhance Saudi Arabia’s position as a global leader through three key themes:

• A vibrant society (value cultural traditions and national pride)
• A thriving economy (creating a supportive business environment)
• An ambitious nation (build an transparent, effective and accountable government)

The terminal’s technology and infrastructure development, such as AI-driven cargo tracking and advanced automation, will help to position Saudi Arabia as a pioneer in smart port operations.

Not only will the expansion help to upskill the country’s workforce by creating new employment opportunities, but it will also improve international trade and investment through the increased container capacity and deep-water quay. 

By modernising port infrastructure and enhancing Jeddah Logistics Park, DP World is helping Saudi Arabia to progress on its journey to becoming a key logistics hub in the context of international supply chains and trade. 

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem added: “I am incredibly proud of DP World’s role in supporting this national ambition, made possible through our close collaboration with the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI).

"My sincere gratitude toward His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser al-Jasser, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Saif bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, UAE’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, and all our partners and teams whose dedication and support have made this vision a reality.

"This has filled me with optimism and determination. With the power of trade, we can drive shared prosperity and build lasting partnerships for the future.”

Explore the latest edition of Supply Chain Digital Magazine and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE.

Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today. 

Supply Chain Digital is a BizClik brand.