The Manifest

The Manifest: A Weekly Roundup of Middle Eastern Maritime News

Welcome aboard the maiden voyage of The Manifest! In this first-ever edition, we’re charting a course through the latest shifts and trends in the Middle East’s maritime sector. From major port upgrades and pioneering partnerships to updated freight rates and strategic route changes shaped by regional dynamics, we’re bringing you the essential highlights from the past week. Join us on this journey as we navigate the evolving seascape of Middle Eastern maritime trade—where each headline steers the industry’s future.

Egypt and UAE Cement Port Development Partnership

The Egyptian Ministry of Petroleum, in collaboration with the Fujairah Government, has launched a significant milestone with the first oil tanker arrival under a strategic cooperation agreement. This initiative is set to transform Hamra Port into a dynamic petroleum logistics hub. The Egyptian Ministry highlighted this as a pivotal step in strengthening Egypt’s role in regional petroleum trade, with the UAE providing critical support to enhance logistics and meet local demands. Read More

Jebel Ali Port’s Remarkable Automotive Milestone

Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port has handled an impressive 427,000 vehicles in the first half of 2024, with expectations of surpassing 800,000 by year-end. Sultan bin Sulayem, Chairman of DP World Group, emphasized Dubai’s vision to create the most advanced automotive and logistics hub in the Middle East, strategically positioned to serve Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Read More

Safety and Sustainability Drive UAE Ports’ Strategy

The UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure held its twelfth annual meeting to discuss advanced maritime operations and sustainability efforts, aligning with the UAE’s "We the UAE 2031" vision. Led by Eng. Hessa Al Malek, the initiative aims to elevate port efficiency through advanced technology and environmental standards, positioning the UAE as a global maritime leader. Read More

King Abdulaziz Port in Saudi Arabia Unveils Electric Trucks

In an eco-friendly move, Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Port introduced 80 electric trucks, marking the region’s largest deployment of emission-free vehicles in port operations. The trucks are part of a broader, SAR 7 billion agreement aligned with Saudi Arabia’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy and its Green Initiative. This transition underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to sustainable logistics infrastructure, with support from Chinese manufacturing partner SANY. Read More

Aqaba Port Showcases Strength to Sudanese Delegation

Aqaba Company for Ports Operation & Management hosted a Sudanese delegation to highlight its advanced capabilities in transit and storage. The visit, led by Dr. Mahmoud Khalifat, emphasized Aqaba Port’s readiness to support increased trade flows in the region and showcased Jordan’s operational standards in safety and efficiency. Read More

Aqaba Container Terminal Celebrates Global Safety Day

In a move to promote workplace safety, Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT) held activities focused on improving safety protocols. Employees participated in Gemba activities and a live fire drill, demonstrating ACT’s commitment to a safe work environment and emergency preparedness. Read More

Egypt Invests in Shipbuilding and Repair Industry

Egypt’s Shipbuilding and Repair Division announced plans to localize its supply chain, aiming to increase sector activity to $500 million by 2029. With 80% of shipbuilding materials currently imported, the initiative seeks to certify local companies for global compliance, thereby reducing reliance on imports and boosting Egypt’s maritime production and export capabilities. Read More

Strategic Adjustments in Cruise and Shipping Routes Amid Regional Tensions

Holland America Line announced a significant change to its 2026 world cruise, bypassing the Red Sea to avoid regional tensions. The new itinerary offers expanded stops in Asia and the Americas, underscoring the evolving security considerations shaping maritime routes. Read More

Suez Canal Authority Strengthens International Partnerships

The Suez Canal Authority, under Lt. Gen. Osama Rabie, hosted the IMO Secretary-General to discuss bolstering maritime safety and environmental initiatives. This collaboration aims to stabilize global shipping through enhanced regional ties, with Saudi Arabia playing a key role as a strategic maritime hub. Read More

Egypt-Italy RoRo Line Set to Bolster Agricultural Exports

In a major logistical development, Egypt has launched a RoRo service connecting Damietta Port with Trieste, Italy, set to begin operations in late November. This initiative promises to streamline export flows to Europe and generate economic growth in Egypt’s agricultural sector through enhanced logistics and reduced transit times. Read More

Damietta Port Attracts Major Investment to Boost Capacity

With a substantial investment of $300 million, Damietta Port’s Tahya Misr Terminal is set to enhance container handling operations. The funding, from a global consortium, will expand Damietta’s capacity by deepening berths and introducing advanced yard cranes, cementing Egypt’s status as a key player in the Mediterranean logistics scene. Read More

CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd Update Freight Rates Amid Rising Tensions

CMA CGM and Hapag-Lloyd announced revised freight rates for Asian shipments to Mediterranean destinations. The adjustments reflect the volatile geopolitical landscape affecting freight pricing and container availability, with analysts predicting continued rate increases into early 2025. Read More

Edge Group Boosts Kuwait’s Naval Capabilities

EDGE Group’s subsidiary, Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB), signed a contract with Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior to enhance Kuwait’s naval fleet. The agreement will refurbish landing crafts and patrol boats, showcasing ADSB’s expertise in regional defense and operational readiness. Read More

Aqaba Ports Operation & Management Welcomes Bulgarian Ambassador

In a diplomatic visit, Bulgaria’s Ambassador to Jordan discussed partnership opportunities in maritime logistics with Aqaba’s port officials, reinforcing the Jordanian port’s commitment to regional cooperation and operational excellence. Read More

Iraq’s Grand Al-Faw Port Set for Major Regional Impact

Iraq’s Grand Al-Faw Port celebrated the inauguration of five new berths, marking an expansion that promises to transform Iraq into a central trade hub connecting Europe and Asia. The port’s new capabilities aim to strengthen Iraq’s economic position in the regional maritime sector. Read More

Mawani Introduces New Services to Enhance Saudi Port Connectivity

Saudi Arabia’s Ports Authority (Mawani) launched new shipping services at Jeddah Islamic Port, fostering links with key regional ports in the UAE, Jordan, and Egypt. This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a global logistics powerhouse. Read More

Egypt Strengthens Grain Logistics with Egyptian-Dutch JV Concession

The Egyptian Parliament approved a 30-year concession to the “Egyptian-Dutch JV, EDSCO” for developing a grain handling station at Alexandria Port. This concession underscores Egypt’s commitment to building a world-class logistics infrastructure and ensuring a steady supply of essential commodities. Read More

Thank you for joining us on this inaugural voyage with The Manifest. Each week, we’ll continue to bring you the essential updates, insights, and analyses shaping the Middle East’s maritime sector. Stay connected to navigate the currents of this dynamic industry with confidence and foresight. Until next week—smooth sailing!