Logistics

South Container Terminal (SCT) at Jeddah Islamic Port has officially recorded its highest-ever monthly throughput since commercial operations began in 1999.

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.

The event will take place from 8–10 September 2026 at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center.

Saudi Arabia continues to cement its reputation as a resilient and pivotal node in international supply chains. Driven by the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and Vision 2030, the nation actively safeguards critical trade routes and ensures the smooth flow of goods. This strategic integration with regional markets sets the stage for a significant industry gathering.

Reflecting this evolution, the third Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Expo returns to the capital. The event will take place from 8–10 September 2026 at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center. Held under the patronage of His Excellency Minister of Transport & Logistic Services, Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, the three-day exhibition will unite government entities, leading suppliers, and key decision-makers to explore partnerships and technologies that support the expanding supply chain ecosystem.

Navigating Unprecedented E-commerce Expansion

The rapid surge in digital commerce is fundamentally transforming supply chain requirements across the Kingdom. As consumer behaviour shifts, there is a mounting demand for faster, more efficient order fulfilment and sophisticated last-mile delivery solutions. Market projections suggest that Saudi Arabia’s e-commerce logistics sector is on track to double in size by 2027, underscoring the industry's phenomenal momentum.

To accommodate this growth, the nation is building a robust infrastructure. Currently, 25 logistics hubs are operational, forming a significant portion of a planned nationwide network of 42 hubs developed in partnership with the private sector.

Reflecting on this transformation, Muhammed Kazi, Senior Vice President at dmg events, the event organiser, stated: “Saudi Arabia's logistics sector is continuously evolving as investment, digitalization and changing customer expectations refine supply chain demands across the Kingdom. Businesses are looking for practical solutions that improve efficiency, strengthen resilience and support long-term growth.”

He elaborated on the exhibition's role, noting: “Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Expo has become an established meeting place for the industry, bringing together the organizations, technologies and expertise supporting the next phase of the Kingdom's logistics development.”

Showcasing Innovations Across the Supply Chain

To equip businesses for future challenges, the exhibition floor will serve as a comprehensive showcase of modern logistics capabilities. Visitors will have the distinct opportunity to connect with industry peers, source new products, and observe cutting-edge solutions designed to optimise operational performance.

Key areas of focus at the event will include:

• Advanced cargo handling and sophisticated cold chain management systems

• Streamlined cross-docking and transloading operations

• Comprehensive freight forwarding and multimodal transport options

• Optimised ports, terminal services, and third-party logistics

• Innovative order fulfilment and expedited last-mile delivery mechanisms

An impressive line-up of leading industry players will be exhibiting their latest offerings. Attendees can expect to see major brands such as SAL Logistics, MS Logistics, Al Dress, Swisslog, SSI Schafer, JAL, Ajlan, Kardex, and Sadr Logistics demonstrating their expertise on the showroom floor.

Strategic Summit and Commercial Fleet Solutions

Running alongside the main exhibition, the Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Summit will offer an accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) programme. Designed for policymakers, supply chain professionals, and industry leaders, the summit aims to address critical priorities influencing the sector and bolster the Kingdom’s performance in the World Bank’s Logistics Performance Index (LPI). Key agenda topics encompass artificial intelligence, advanced automation, supply chain resilience, cross-sector collaboration, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

Furthermore, a dedicated Commercial Vehicles Zone will highlight transport and fleet solutions tailored to the Kingdom’s lucrative $6.7 billion commercial vehicle market. This specialised area will gather prominent automotive and heavy machinery brands such as GCC Olyan, F4S Shacman, Almajdouie, Hala Auto, and Alkhorayef Sany.

Looking ahead to the upcoming event, Kazi commented: “As the sector continues to expand, Saudi Warehousing & Logistics Expo offers an opportunity for businesses to build new partnerships, exchange knowledge and connect with the decision-makers driving the logistics industry in Saudi Arabia forward. We look forward to welcoming the industry back to Riyadh this September.”

The exhibition is open exclusively to trade professionals over the age of 18, with complimentary visitor registration currently available through the official event website.

The inauguration of the headquarters and first manufacturing facility of KERNO Enterprise.

Global utilities and leading power equipment manufacturers have united to address escalating bottlenecks within grid supply chains.

In a joint statement released during London Climate Action Week, industry leaders outlined steps to harmonise fragmented equipment standards and provide enhanced demand visibility, aiming to de-risk international procurement.

By 2030, Utilities for Net Zero Alliance (UNEZA) members will require nearly 90,000 kilometres of transmission cable; enough to wrap around the Earth over twice, alongside 273 high-voltage transformers, 12,000 medium- and low-voltage transformers, and 77 substations.

These requirements severely eclipse current manufacturing capacities, with transformer wait times now exceeding three years. Addressing these material constraints is critical to maintaining the pace of global grid expansion.

Co-led by UK utility SSE and Abu Dhabi-based TAQA, UNEZA operates under the guidance of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) and the UN Climate Change High-Level Champions, working alongside the UK Government-led Global Clean Power Alliance (GCPA).

UK Climate Minister Katie White stated: “This call from the Utilities for Net Zero Alliance shows that, by working with industry, governments can stop tying themselves in knots and start delivering the infrastructure needed to meet global demand – enough cable to wrap around the Earth more than twice. Through partnerships like the Global Clean Power Alliance, Britain is tackling long-standing barriers to clean energy. That will help us deliver the clean power mission, lower bills for good, and support other countries to reduce emissions and accelerate their own transition.”

Khalifa Al Mheiri, Chief Strategy & Investment Officer at TAQA Transmission, said: "As a utility investing in the next generation of electricity networks, TAQA recognises that delivering the energy transition at the pace the world requires depends not only on investment, but on our ability to strengthen and modernise global supply chains. Through UNEZA, utilities are taking practical action to improve coordination, harmonise technical approaches and explore pooled procurement models that provide greater certainty for suppliers while helping utilities deliver critical infrastructure faster, more efficiently and at lower cost. Collaboration across the value chain will be fundamental to building resilient electricity systems that support long-term energy security and net-zero ambitions.”

Glenn Barber, Director of Corporate Affairs at SSE, said: “We know from our experience in the UK that long-term visibility of demand is vital. It gives supply chain partners the certainty they need to invest in the manufacturing capacity and technical innovation needed to meet the demands of a monumental global energy transition. By bringing global utilities and supply chain partners together, UNEZA is not only helping to provide that visibility but tackling the practical barriers to supply chain development. The focus at London Climate Week on electrification of demand is welcome and necessary; at the same time, electrification will only be possible if grids can keep pace and the steps outlined today can plan an important role in that.”

Francesco La Camera, Director-General of IRENA, said: “We have spent the past decade proving that renewables can be deployed at scale. That case is made. The challenge now is ensuring grids and supply chains keep pace to deliver clean power reliably to homes, industries and communities. As electrification takes center stage in the next phase of the transition, with IRENA calling for a global electrification target of 35% by 2035, resilient supply chains will be essential. Initiatives such as the Utilities for Net Zero Alliance and the Global Clean Power Alliance show the value of governments, utilities and industry working together to accelerate progress while enhancing energy security and system resilience.”

Following a roundtable co-hosted with the GCPA, the alliance underscored massive financial commitments. At COP30, UNEZA members raised their collective annual investment target for renewables, grids, and storage from USD 117 billion to USD 148 billion. Overall clean energy investments between COP28 and 2030 are on course to exceed USD 1 trillion.

To secure supply chain resilience, UNEZA launched a Delivery Mechanism focused on pooled procurement. Members committed to three priority actions: providing annual demand signals to spur capacity growth, advancing harmonised equipment standards to improve interoperability, and scaling coordinated procurement. Now comprising 85 member organisations, UNEZA will continue developing this supply chain roadmap ahead of COP31, driving practical action to build robust electricity systems globally.

The leading logistics, materials, and operations management specialist, ASCO, has officially opened its first corporate office in the Middle East.

The leading logistics, materials, and operations management specialist, ASCO, has officially opened its first corporate office in the Middle East.

Located in the capital city of Doha, this new presence strengthens the company's regional footprint and forms a key part of its broader international growth strategy. The office will support ASCO's expanding client base across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, the wider Middle East, and Asia Pacific regions, bringing its proven international capability directly to customers in vital energy, port, and marine markets.

Through this targeted geographical expansion, ASCO aims to focus on expanding its international footprint, strengthening regional delivery capability, and positioning its business closer to clients in high-growth markets. The company will support operators, contractors, and ports across the Middle East, transforming major infrastructure projects and critical infrastructure into safe, efficient, and scalable day-to-day operations.

Strategic Leadership Appointments

ASCO's Middle East business will be managed by Craig Revie, who possesses more than 30 years of experience across offshore oil and gas, new energy, and defence markets. During his tenure with ASCO, Revie has successfully grown a number of the company's service lines, bringing strong operational and commercial leadership to the region.

Regional growth will be led from Qatar by Lee Vettese, who has transitioned from his role as business development manager in the UK to regional manager, Middle East. Vettese brings over 15 years of international energy experience, with a proven track record in client management, business growth, and driving strategic partnerships. He is supported by Walaa Mroueh, the newly appointed business services manager, who brings over 14 years of experience driving growth for businesses across the KSA, UAE, Egypt, and Iraq.

Meeting Regional Demand

With a strong pipeline of work already in place, ASCO is experiencing growing demand across energy expansion, port activity, marine logistics, materials management, decommissioning readiness, and environmental compliance.

Mike Pettigrew, group chief executive officer at ASCO, said: “The GCC and wider Middle East region is a significant growth area for ASCO, and opening our new office in Qatar is a natural next step for the business. With increasing demand for environmental handling and decommissioning services, our decades of experience across critical industries, combined with deep expertise in supply base management, materials management, lifting assurance and NORM waste management, means we are ideally positioned to partner closely with customers to deliver safe, efficient and sustainable operations across the region."

Lee Vettese added: “The Middle East has invested heavily in world-class infrastructure across energy, ports and marine sectors and our presence in Qatar will ensure we can support this activity and respond quickly to customers in-region. ASCO’s breadth of services means we are equipped to bring a high level of control and traceability into complex operations and help clients maximise the value of those assets, ensuring they operate efficiently and in full environmental compliance.”

Corporate Background and Global Footprint

This latest expansion follows recent contract wins around the globe and the successful rollout of ASCO's refreshed brand identity. Headquartered in Aberdeen, UK, ASCO operates from 70 locations worldwide, employs approximately 1,500 people, and is owned by Endless LLP.

As a full-service specialist, ASCO optimises the movements and operations of the world’s most critical industries. The company goes beyond logistics to make sure materials, resources, and processes are exactly where they need to be, fully managed end to end, so complex, high-value capital projects keep moving without delay. By managing and orchestrating everything from warehousing and global freight to specialist waste handling and safe lifting, ASCO successfully minimises risk and maximises efficiency for its global clients.