DP World has strengthened its operations at Jeddah Islamic Port with the addition of three semi-automated quay cranes, enhancing capacity and improving efficiency in handling the world’s largest container vessels. The move comes as shipping activity returns to the Red Sea, helping ensure more reliable trade flows despite ongoing maritime security challenges in the region.
Each of the new cranes has a lifting capacity of 65 tonnes, boosting berth productivity and enabling the terminal to handle multiple mainline vessels at the same time. Built by ZPMC and currently undergoing commissioning, the cranes increase the number of ship-to-shore units at the terminal from 14 to 17, with plans to expand the fleet to 22 as part of future upgrades.
The cranes form part of DP World’s $800 million modernisation programme, which has already doubled the terminal’s capacity from 1.8 million to 4 million TEUs. The investment is expected to support further growth to 5 million TEUs, with additional equipment to be introduced in line with rising demand.
DP World’s South Container Terminal features a 2,150-metre quay, including a deep-water berth with an 18-metre depth, allowing it to accommodate up to five ultra-large container vessels simultaneously. The facility is also equipped with advanced automation and modern handling systems designed to improve turnaround times and overall operational efficiency.
Mohammad Alshaikh, CEO of DP World KSA, said the expansion will help customers move goods more efficiently while strengthening the terminal’s ability to handle larger vessels and growing container volumes. He added that the company continues to work closely with port authorities, security partners and shipping lines to maintain safe and reliable operations across the Red Sea.
In 2025, DP World Jeddah handled more than 1.3 million TEUs, more than doubling its throughput compared to the previous year, as shipping lines returned to the Red Sea corridor and weekly services increased to 38 calls. The company has also expanded its freight forwarding operations, improving inland connectivity and offering more integrated supply chain solutions across Saudi Arabia.
