Global maritime logistics and supply chain resilience are experiencing a transformative moment as key Red Sea trade corridors rebound.
Demonstrating the broader recovery of regional maritime pathways and the increasing adaptability of international shipping networks, the South Container Terminal (SCT) at Jeddah Islamic Port has officially recorded its highest-ever monthly throughput since commercial operations began in 1999. Handling over 221,200 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) in July 2026, this vital Saudi gateway has surpassed trade volumes last witnessed prior to the onset of Red Sea shipping disruptions in late 2023.
This milestone underscores a remarkable period of post-disruption recovery, aligning with the gradual return of commercial shipping traffic through western maritime corridors. As international carriers re-establish routes and optimise vessel schedules, terminals equipped with advanced digital technologies and robust physical infrastructure are proving pivotal in supporting uninterrupted, high-volume trade flows across the Middle East.
Record-Breaking Performance and Export Growth
The exceptional July figures are part of a broader, sustained upward trajectory for the terminal throughout 2026. During the first half of the year, SCT throughput surged by nearly 79 per cent year-on-year across imports, exports, and transshipment operations, demonstrating the immense economic dynamism of the region.
Key operational milestones include:
Total July Throughput: Over 221,200 TEUs handled in a single record-breaking month.
Export Volumes: A monthly high of 79,720 TEUs processed, reflecting robust export growth through the Saudi gateway.
Vessel Activity: Accommodated 390 vessel calls during the first half of 2026 alone.
Service Expansion: Welcomed new shipping lines, including the maiden call of a Wan Hai-operated mainline container vessel in July.
These figures illustrate how vital modernised, high-capacity port infrastructure is in accommodating larger commercial fleet units while simultaneously driving down vessel turnaround times.
Strengthening Infrastructure and Strategic Vision
To support this rapid expansion in cargo density and maintain operational excellence, ongoing investments in port equipment and terminal modernization are actively reshaping the facility's capacity. Recent upgrades at SCT include the addition of three new quay cranes—bringing the total fleet to 17—alongside 17 automated electric rubber-tyred gantry cranes (AeRTGs). Furthermore, the terminal has integrated 35 electric terminal tractors, 30 additional trailers, and significantly enhanced reefer and cold-storage infrastructure to preserve perishable imports.
Looking ahead, terminal management is pressing forward with a broader development programme aimed at lifting annual throughput capacity to 5 million TEUs.
Reflecting on these milestones, Ahmad Yousef Al-Hassan, CEO & MD, DP World GCC, noted: “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 catomers more options and more reliable routes to markheir supply chain requirements evo
The Future of Regional Supply Chains
As global supply chains continue to evolve, the seamless integration of maritime terminals with robust inland logistics networks remains paramount. By bridging the gap between deep-water berths, high-efficiency container yards, and multi-modal distribution facilities, operations like Jeddah’s SCT are anchoring the Kingdom’s strategic economic diversification goals. Through continued investment in sustainable technologies, automation, and expanded capacity, the terminal stands ready to serve as a resilient cornerstone for international commerce.
Jeddah Port hits record monthly throughput amid Red Sea recovery
South Container Terminal (SCT) at Jeddah Islamic Port has officially recorded its highest-ever monthly throughput since commercial operations began in 1999.
