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How GCC’s ports and expanding fleets are shaping the future of maritime trade
Aside from port efficiency, GCC countries ranked among the top 35 nations for the size of their maritime fleets by tonnage and capacity.
The GCC’s transport and logistics sector is gaining global recognition for its efficient distribution channels and strategic partnerships, which have accelerated the growth of this thriving industry in the region. Ports in the GCC have also earned international acclaim, with 10 container terminals ranked among the world’s 70 most efficient in 2024, according to recent data.
These rankings emphasize the Gulf region’s rising prominence in international shipping and logistics. According to the Emirates News Agency, citing GCC Statistics Center data, the ports were chosen from a global pool of 405 terminals, showcasing the region’s growing influence in global trade.
Beyond port efficiency, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, and Qatar have also been ranked among the top 35 nations worldwide for the size of their maritime fleets by tonnage and capacity, as highlighted in the UN Conference on Trade and Development’s 2024 report.
The GCC Statistics Center reports that the Gulf’s commercial fleets now represent 54.2% of the total Arab shipping fleet, solidifying the region’s standing as a key player in global maritime trade. With over 25 major seaports across its member states, the GCC is poised for further maritime infrastructure growth.
In terms of container productivity, two Gulf ports rank among the world’s top performers, each managing over 4 million containers annually. Additionally, eight ports are classified as medium performers, with container throughput ranging from 500,000 to 4 million annually. These achievements underscore the substantial investments made in port infrastructure and logistics capabilities across the region.
The GCC countries—Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, and Qatar—are actively enhancing port efficiency and productivity through strategic investments. These initiatives include significant infrastructure upgrades, operational advancements, and policy reforms, all aimed at positioning the region as a leading global trade hub and strengthening the competitiveness of its maritime sector.
In Saudi Arabia, the Vision 2030 framework, through the National Industrial Development and Logistics Program, aims to position the Kingdom as a global logistics hub. Key projects by the Saudi Ports Authority include a $170.5 million expansion of Jeddah Islamic Port’s berths to accommodate mega container ships and a $1.87 billion upgrade of container terminals at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam.
Oman is enhancing its role in global maritime trade by investing in port infrastructure and adopting advanced technologies to improve operational efficiency.
The UAE continues to lead in the maritime sector, with Dubai’s Jebel Ali Port ranked as the ninth-largest container port globally. It is also home to DP World, one of the largest port operators worldwide, managing 181 terminals across 64 countries.
In Qatar, port infrastructure development plays a key role in the country’s economic diversification efforts. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has introduced incentives, including reduced service fees, to attract foreign investment and integrate Qatari ports more effectively into global trade networks.
The GCC-Stat highlighted the region’s focus on sustainable port development, positioning Gulf ports as integral players in global supply chains. It also underscored the strategic importance of Gulf maritime operations in maintaining regional security and stability.
Ongoing investments in port infrastructure and sustainability are expected to solidify the GCC’s position as a crucial hub in global trade.
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