The Saudi Maritime & Logistics Congress has opened at Jeddah Superdome, bringing together government representatives and industry leaders to explore opportunities to strengthen the Kingdom’s maritime sector, improve supply chain resilience and expand its role in global trade.
The event comes as changes in global shipping routes prompt companies to reassess their operations, capacity and investments.
In his opening address, H.E. Eng. Fawaz bin Zunaf Al-Sahli, President of the Transport General Authority (TGA), said Saudi Arabia’s ambitions extend beyond port development to building an integrated transport and logistics system. He highlighted the importance of connecting maritime and land transport to strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a trusted trade partner.
Discussions at the congress covered developments around the Suez Canal, alternative shipping routes and improved port connectivity. These measures could give cargo owners and shipping operators greater flexibility as they respond to changing trade conditions.
Mohaned El Mahgoub, Vice President at Tahaluf, said the gathering comes at a critical time for the industry, as companies make immediate decisions about shipping routes, capacity and investment.
He noted that strong relationships across the supply chain are essential to navigating disruption. He added that Saudi Arabia’s maritime and logistics capabilities are helping businesses respond to challenges and build confidence in the routes and services they depend on.
Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s Maritime Sector
Eng. Essam AlAmmari, Deputy for Maritime Transport at the Transport General Authority, described maritime transport development as a key pillar of supply chain resilience, stronger trade connectivity and the continued movement of goods across regional and international markets.
He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s strategic location, which connects major maritime trade corridors across three continents, as a foundation for expanding its role in global logistics.
AlAmmari said the priority is to turn this geographic advantage into greater operational efficiency, stronger international partnerships and sustainable growth across the maritime transport sector.
Participants also explored ways to increase transit cargo moving through Saudi Arabia to Gulf markets, reinforcing the Kingdom’s potential as a regional logistics hub.
Several industry developments were announced during the congress. Bahri, the National Shipping Company of Saudi Arabia, revealed a collaboration with the University of Jeddah. Meanwhile, Faisal M. Higgi & Associates Co. Ltd. introduced its new trade name, FMH Marine Services.
Technology and Sustainability in Focus
Technology featured prominently in discussions, with sessions examining how automation and artificial intelligence can improve vessel and truck scheduling, as well as the use of port terminals.
Sustainability was another key theme. Industry discussions covered potential decarbonisation solutions, including biofuels, hybrid propulsion systems and carbon capture technologies.
These conversations reflect the sector’s efforts to improve operational performance while addressing the environmental challenges facing maritime transport.
Marinas and Marine Tourism Create New Opportunities
The congress also explored the role of marinas in supporting Saudi Arabia’s tourism ambitions and developing its wider marine economy.
Oriel Blake, Marine Operations Director at Sela, highlighted the importance of specialised marina facilities in attracting superyachts and serving the needs of the luxury marine market.
Rayana Al-Ghamdi, Deputy General Manager at SAMACO Marine, said the company aims to provide more than marina operations. Its approach includes supporting customers across the marine sector through boat sales, after-sales services and marina facilities, while contributing to the industry’s growth in Saudi Arabia.
The congress continues with further sessions focused on developing an integrated national logistics system and strengthening the Kingdom’s maritime competitiveness.
