DP World boosts Jeddah cargo handling with 17 cranes

DP World has deployed 17 automated electric cranes at Jeddah Islamic Port’s South Container Terminal to improve container handling and support growing trade volumes. The deployment is part of an $800 million modernisation programme aimed at increasing annual handling capacity from 3.9 million to 5 million TEUs.

The new rubber-tyred gantry cranes use automated positioning and remote-control technology to move containers with greater precision and consistency. The upgrades are designed to improve yard operations and support the movement of larger cargo volumes.

The terminal now has 77 gantry cranes, including 50 electric and automated units, which account for about 65% of the fleet. The new cranes also reduce reliance on diesel-powered equipment.

The wider investment includes infrastructure upgrades and expanded yard capacity to support container traffic and improve cargo-handling efficiency.

Mohammad Alshaikh, CEO of DP World KSA, said: “By combining automation and electrification, we are strengthening our ability to handle growing trade volumes.”