DP World has added three new semi-automated quay cranes at its terminal in Jeddah Islamic Port, increasing capacity and enabling more efficient handling of the world’s largest container vessels.
This latest capacity expansion comes as shipping activity returns to the Red Sea, strengthening the terminal’s ability to maintain reliable trade flows amid ongoing maritime security challenges, the port operator said in a press statement.
With a lifting capacity of 65 tonnes each, the new cranes increase berth productivity and enable the terminal to serve multiple mainline vessels simultaneously, supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambitions as a leading global logistics hub.
Commissioning
Built by China’s ZPMC and currently in commissioning, the cranes join the terminal’s existing fleet, expanding the total number of ship-to-shore cranes from 14 to 17, with plans to reach 22 as part of future capacity upgrades.
DP World’s South Container Terminal spans a total quay length of 2,150m including a deep-water quay with an 18m depth, capable of accommodating up to five ultra-large container vessels simultaneously. The terminal is equipped with modernised handling equipment and advanced automation technologies designed to improve turnaround times and operational efficiency.
Modernisation programme
The new cranes are part of an US$ 800mn modernisation programme that increased terminal capacity from 1.8mn to 4mn twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). The investment paves the way for a future capacity of 5mn TEUs, with additional ship-to-shore equipment to be deployed as demand grows.
“While recent regional developments have brought new challenges, we are working closely with port authorities, security partners and shipping customers to ensure safe, reliable operations to keep trade moving across the Red Sea and beyond,” affirmed Mohammad Alshaikh, CEO, DP World, Saudi Arabia.
In 2025, DP World Jeddah handled over 1.3mn TEUs, more than double the volumes of the previous year as shipping lines returned to the Red Sea corridor and services increased to 38 weekly calls, the press statement concluded.
