Saudi Arabia has signed Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) contracts worth $586 million to develop and operate multi-purpose cargo terminals at eight key ports across the Kingdom.

The 20-year agreements were signed by the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) in collaboration with the National Centre for Privatization, and witnessed by Saleh Al Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of Mawani.

The contracts were awarded to Saudi Global Ports (SGP) and Red Sea Gateway Terminal, two of the Kingdom’s leading logistics providers.

The initiative spans strategic ports on both the eastern and western coasts, including King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, Jubail Commercial Port, King Fahd Industrial Ports in Jubail and Yanbu, Ras Al-Khair Port, Jeddah Islamic Port, Yanbu Commercial Port, and Jazan Port.

The privatization deals aim to modernize cargo-handling operations through advanced cranes, stackers, and trucks. They also target reduced truck turnaround times and vessel berth durations, improved container handling capacity, and enhanced overall operational efficiency.

Beyond infrastructure and performance upgrades, the contracts are expected to attract further private investment into Saudi Arabia’s logistics sector, supporting the Kingdom’s goal of becoming a global logistics hub under Vision 2030.

Commenting on the agreements, Minister Al Jasser emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with the private sector across all regions and sectors.

He said the contracts reflect Mawani’s ongoing efforts to build strategic partnerships with leading local and international firms, strengthening the Kingdom’s position in global maritime trade and supporting broader economic diversification goals.