Logistics

Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Ports Authority “Mawani”, Saleh bin Nasser Al‑Jasser. (Image source: Mawani)

Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Ports Authority “Mawani”, Saleh bin Nasser Al‑Jasser, inaugurated a new logistics corridors initiative aimed at strengthening cargo flows between ports in Saudi Arabia and the wider Gulf region.

The initiative, unveiled during a visit to Jeddah Islamic Port, is designed to create dedicated operational routes for containers and freight redirected from ports in the Kingdom’s eastern region and other Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

The project will support the movement of cargo towards Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea ports, improving supply chain efficiency and strengthening connectivity between regional trade routes and international shipping networks.

The launch event was attended by Suhail bin Mohammed Abanmi and Suliman bin Khalid Al‑Mazroua, alongside officials from government entities and the logistics sector.

According to Al-Jasser, the initiative forms part of the Kingdom’s broader strategy to reinforce its position as a global logistics hub and ensure the stability of supply chains during periods of disruption.

He noted that Saudi Arabia’s transport and logistics ecosystem continues to benefit from strong support from King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Mohammed bin Salman.

Strengthening Saudi and GCC logistics

Al-Jasser said ports on the Red Sea coast play an increasingly important role in accommodating cargo redirected from eastern ports and neighbouring Gulf countries. By expanding the operational capacity of western ports, Saudi Arabia aims to maintain the smooth movement of goods and support both regional and international trade.

He also highlighted the resilience of the Kingdom’s transport infrastructure, noting that alternative logistics corridors can be activated quickly when required to maintain trade flows.

During the event, Abanmi explained that the initiative will also strengthen integration between customs and logistics procedures across GCC ports. The Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority is working with other agencies to accelerate cargo clearance processes and facilitate cross-border trade.

Saudi Arabia’s customs network already supports transit services that allow goods to move through the Kingdom via land, sea and air routes to other GCC countries. The system is complemented by bonded warehouse zones where goods can be stored with suspended duties and taxes before being cleared or re-exported.

Al-Mazroua said the corridors initiative reflects close cooperation between government bodies and private sector partners to maintain supply chain continuity and improve cargo flows.

During the visit, Al-Jasser also chaired a meeting at the port’s command and control centre to review vessel traffic and cargo handling operations. He later toured container terminals, logistics parks and re-export facilities at the port.

Jeddah Islamic Port is the largest hub port on the Red Sea and one of the region’s key logistics centres. Ports along Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast collectively handle more than 18.6 million TEUs annually, reinforcing the country’s role in global trade networks.

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Airlines and aviation authorities across the Middle East are adjusting operations as regional tensions and airspace restrictions continue to disrupt travel, forcing carriers to reduce schedules while governments coordinate support for affected passengers.

Emirates confirmed it is operating a reduced flight schedule until further notice following the partial reopening of some regional airspace. The airline said it plans to run more than 100 flights to and from Dubai on 5 and 6 March in order to transport passengers and move essential cargo such as pharmaceuticals and perishables.

A spokesperson said the carrier will progressively rebuild its timetable as more airspace becomes available and operational requirements are met. Safety, the airline emphasised, remains its primary priority while it continues to monitor developments across the region.

Passengers have been advised to travel to the airport only if they hold confirmed bookings and to check the airline’s website and social media channels for the latest updates.

Meanwhile, Dubai-based carrier flydubai has resumed flights across parts of its network but is currently operating a scaled-back schedule. The airline said it is gradually adding services as restrictions on regional airspace begin to ease.

However, flight times may be longer than usual as aircraft are temporarily rerouted to avoid restricted zones. The airline also urged customers not to travel to the airport without confirmation of a booking or rebooked flight. Travellers connecting through Dubai will only be accepted if their onward flight is operating.

Despite wider disruptions, aviation activity in Jordan has remained comparatively stable. The Civil Aviation Regulatory Commission reported that airports across the Kingdom continued operating normally on Wednesday despite the closure of airspace in several neighbouring countries.

According to commission chairman Deifallah Farajat, Queen Alia International Airport recorded 67 inbound flights and 58 departures during the day, with national carrier Royal Jordanian accounting for the largest share of operations. Authorities said technical teams remain on standby to respond to any developments affecting airspace safety.

Elsewhere, the government of Oman has begun assisting foreign nationals stranded across the Gulf as the travel disruption intensifies. Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi said the country is working with governments and international airlines to organise flights for travellers seeking to leave the region.

Omani authorities are coordinating with diplomatic missions and carriers to ensure safe and orderly departures for affected passengers. The initiative reflects the Sultanate’s longstanding diplomatic approach of prioritising humanitarian assistance during regional crises.

The aviation disruption follows the escalation of the US-Israel-Iran conflict, which has prompted several countries to close or restrict their airspace. Airlines have been forced to cancel services or divert aircraft along longer routes to avoid conflict zones.

Industry observers warn that flight disruptions could persist in the coming weeks if hostilities continue, with travellers across the Middle East advised to monitor airline updates as schedules remain subject to rapid change.

Etihad Rail has operated a passenger train on a trial basis between Al Ghuwaifat, near the Saudi border, and Al Faya in Abu Dhabi, as part of contingency planning linked to current regional developments.

The test run forms part of wider preparedness measures aimed at safeguarding essential services and ensuring alternative transport options remain available if required. The initiative was carried out in coordination with the Abu Dhabi Emergencies, Crises and Disasters Management Centre (ADCMC).

Officials said the route connecting the two stations holds strategic significance, strengthening transport links between the UAE and Saudi Arabia while facilitating access to key ports and logistics hubs. The connection is designed to support the movement of citizens and residents and provide additional flexibility within approved response frameworks.

The operation sits within a broader package of integrated measures implemented by relevant authorities to reinforce logistical security and business continuity. These efforts are aligned with multi-scenario risk management strategies intended to ensure that critical infrastructure remains resilient under changing circumstances.

Matar Saeed Al Nuaimi, Director-General of ADCMC, said transport readiness is central to Abu Dhabi’s comprehensive emergency response system. He noted that developments are managed under structured governance and close coordination across sectors, allowing for rapid adjustments and efficient deployment of resources.

Al Nuaimi added that maintaining flexibility within the transport network is vital to sustaining essential services and preserving societal stability. The Centre, he said, continues to monitor developments around the clock to strengthen preparedness and public confidence.

From Etihad Rail’s side, Chief Projects Officer Eng Mohammed Al Shehhi said the trial demonstrates the adaptability of the UAE’s national railway network. He noted that operating passenger services along the Al Ghuwaifat–Al Faya corridor highlights the system’s ability to support national requirements under various scenarios.

Al Shehhi said the initiative aligns with directives to bolster the national transport ecosystem and enhance its strategic contribution to community resilience. He confirmed that Etihad Rail teams remain in close coordination with government partners to maintain operational continuity.

Authorities stressed that the move reflects proactive planning rather than reactive measures, translating risk assessments into practical solutions that enhance infrastructure resilience and ensure the smooth movement of people when needed.

The Etihad Rail has unveiled fresh details of its forthcoming passenger services. (Image source: Etihad Rail)

The Etihad Rail has unveiled fresh details of its forthcoming passenger services, offering insight into what travellers can expect when the UAE’s national rail network begins operations later this year.

The announcement follows confirmation of the country’s long-anticipated intercity passenger rail system, positioned as a modern alternative to driving between the Emirates.

The service has been designed to reflect changing lifestyles across the UAE, with a focus on reliability, comfort and sustainability.

Azza AlSuwaidi, deputy chief executive of Etihad Rail Mobility, said the next phase marks a shift from delivering infrastructure to shaping the overall travel experience.

She noted that the ambition is to create a service people actively choose because it integrates seamlessly into their daily routines.

For commuters, predictability is central to the offering. A consistent timetable and guaranteed seating are intended to provide peace of mind, enabling passengers to plan their schedules with greater certainty.

Quiet, calm onboard environments are also expected to allow travellers to use their journey time productively or as an opportunity to rest.

Key features

AlSuwaidi said reliability remains the defining factor for daily passengers, adding that the rail network is designed to give people “useful and usable time back” rather than adding to the pressures of the working day.

Business travellers are another key demographic. Trains will feature onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets at every seat and spacious interiors, creating what the operator describes as a professional and connected setting.

The aim is to allow passengers to work, prepare for meetings or unwind while travelling between the UAE’s major commercial hubs.

Families and leisure travellers are also being targeted as core users of the service. Dedicated family seating areas and generous luggage storage are intended to make weekend breaks, holidays and visits to relatives easier and less stressful.

By removing the demands of driving, such as navigating traffic and long hours at the wheel, the operator believes rail travel can help families spend more meaningful time together.

AlSuwaidi highlighted that 2026 has been designated the UAE Year of the Family, noting that rail journeys can offer uninterrupted shared time that is increasingly rare in modern life.

The passenger experience has also been developed to reflect a distinct Emirati identity. From station architecture to onboard design, the network aims to embody national values centred on safety, quality and hospitality.

Officials say international best practice and rigorous operational standards will underpin the system, reinforcing confidence among citizens and residents alike.