Saudi Arabia Expands Red Sea Shipping Network with New Jeddah–Salalah–Djibouti Cargo Route under Vision 2030 Maritime Logistics Strategy
Saudi Arabia has launched a new Red Sea cargo shipping service aimed at strengthening regional maritime connectivity and reinforcing the Kingdom’s position as a fast-growing global logistics hub.
The Saudi Ports Authority Mawani has introduced the new shipping line connecting Jeddah Islamic Port with Salalah Port and the Port of Djibouti. The service is designed to enhance cargo movement efficiency and support the expansion of import and export flows across key regional trade gateways.
According to Saudi state television, the new maritime route has a carrying capacity of up to 1,730 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). It is expected to play a significant role in improving supply chain connectivity while facilitating smoother trade operations between the Kingdom and strategic ports in the Middle East and East Africa.
The launch aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader economic transformation under Vision 2030, which focuses on diversifying the national economy and strengthening the country’s integration into global shipping lanes linking Asia, Africa, and Europe. The initiative also reflects growing competition among GCC states to establish dominant positions in international maritime trade, port development, and logistics infrastructure.
In parallel, Mawani has also expanded its maritime services through the introduction of the “Red Sea Express” cargo route via King Fahd Industrial Port in Yanbu. This service connects Saudi Arabia with Ain Sokhna Port and Aqaba Port, further improving regional trade efficiency and strengthening Red Sea shipping corridors.
Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in port infrastructure, maritime logistics corridors, and shipping network expansion as part of its long-term strategy to become a leading global logistics and transshipment center.
