DP World Jeddah Expands Capacity with New Quay Cranes

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – DP World has strengthened its operations at the South Container Terminal in Jeddah Islamic Port by introducing three new semi-automated quay cranes. These cranes, each with a lifting capacity of 65 tonnes, are designed to handle the world’s largest container vessels efficiently, boosting berth productivity and enabling simultaneous service of multiple mainline ships.

The new equipment, built by ZPMC and currently undergoing commissioning, expands the terminal’s total ship-to-shore crane count from 14 to 17, with future plans to increase this number to 22. This addition is part of an $800 million modernization program aimed at increasing terminal capacity from 1.8 million to 4 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs), with projections to reach 5 million TEUs as demand grows.

DP World’s South Container Terminal stretches over 2,150 metres of quay, including an 18-metre deep-water section capable of accommodating up to five ultra-large container vessels simultaneously. Modern handling equipment and advanced automation technologies ensure faster turnaround times and improved operational efficiency.

Mohammad Alshaikh, CEO of DP World KSA, commented: “By expanding capacity and enhancing operational agility, we are enabling our customers to move goods more efficiently. Our investments ensure the terminal can accommodate larger vessels and increasing container volumes, even amid regional challenges, while maintaining safe and reliable operations across the Red Sea.”

In 2025, DP World Jeddah handled over 1.3 million TEUs, more than double the previous year’s volume, driven by increased shipping activity in the Red Sea corridor. The company has also expanded its freight forwarding services, strengthening inland connectivity and offering comprehensive end-to-end supply chain solutions across Saudi Arabia.

As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, DP World continues to invest in infrastructure, technology, and operational capabilities, reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a leading global logistics hub and supporting sustainable trade growth in the wider Red Sea region.