Jeddah terminal hits 221,200 TEUs, highest since 1999

DP World’s South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port handled more than 221,200 TEUs of cargo in July, its highest monthly volume since operations began in 1999. Export cargo also reached a record 79,720 TEUs, reflecting stronger trade flows through Saudi Arabia.

Cargo volumes at the terminal rose nearly 79% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, with growth across imports, exports and transshipment. The increase points to rising demand for cargo handling and distribution capacity as trade through the Kingdom expands.

Ahmad Yousef Al-Hassan, CEO & MD, DP World GCC, said: “Jeddah is a key gateway for Saudi Arabia’s trade, connecting businesses in the Kingdom with regional and global markets. As trade flows grow, our focus is on building the capacity and connectivity needed to move cargo seamlessly across the wider regional network.” 

To handle higher volumes, DP World has added three quay cranes, 17 automated electric RTGs, 35 electric terminal tractors and 30 trailers. Reefer and cold-storage facilities have also been upgraded to support a wider range of cargo.

The terminal is being expanded to raise annual handling capacity to 5 million TEUs. The additional capacity will help cargo owners move larger volumes through Jeddah and improve access to markets across Saudi Arabia.

DP World is also developing the $250 million Jeddah Logistics Park, which will add 415,000 sq m of warehousing and distribution space near the port. The facility is expected to strengthen the link between cargo handling, storage and inland distribution, supporting faster movement of goods across the Kingdom.