In a remarkable demonstration of progress and innovation, the Saudi Ports Authority, known as Mawani, has garnered significant recognition at the Transport & Logistics Middle East (TLME) Awards 2025. The ceremony, held in Dubai, UAE, celebrated Mawani's outstanding achievements within the fields of 'Ports Infrastructure' and 'Logistics Hub.' These dual awards not only affirm Mawani's dedication to enhancing the Kingdom's logistical landscape but also signify Saudi Arabia's strategic position as a leader in global trade and transportation.
A Testament to Progress: Mawani's Achievements
Mawani's recent accolades underscore the robust advancements made in Saudi Arabia's port infrastructure and logistics capabilities. The Kingdom has embarked on an ambitious journey to upgrade its ports, and key milestones illustrate this commitment. Notably, Mawani has successfully facilitated the largest privatization contracts in Saudi port history. These contracts involve the development and operation of container terminals at Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, amounting to more than SAR 16 billion in investments made in collaboration with the private sector.
These substantial investments are not merely financial statistics; they represent a transformative approach to port operations in the Kingdom. By engaging the private sector, Mawani has effectively harnessed expertise and innovation, ensuring that Saudi ports are equipped to handle increasing volumes of trade. Furthermore, the launch of infrastructure projects worth over SAR 640 million at Jeddah Islamic Port, including berth deepening and new construction, demonstrates Mawani's commitment to accommodating ultra-large container vessels of up to 24,000 TEUs. These advancements align seamlessly with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to position Saudi Arabia as a pivotal global logistics hub bridging three continents.
Expanding Horizons: Logistics Parks and Future Investments
In addition to enhancing port infrastructure, Mawani's vision encompasses the establishment of logistics parks throughout the Kingdom. Recently, Mawani signed agreements to develop 20 logistics parks across various ports, with total investments exceeding SAR 10 billion. This initiative is poised to revolutionize the logistics landscape in Saudi Arabia by creating integrated spaces that facilitate storage, distribution, and value-added services.
Among these developments is the Middle East's largest integrated logistics park, a project launched by Maersk at Jeddah Islamic Port, which has involved a staggering SAR 1.3 billion investment. Such initiatives not only bolster the Kingdom's logistics capabilities but also generate employment opportunities and stimulate local economies. As these logistics parks come to fruition, they will play a crucial role in enhancing the efficiency of supply chains and reducing transit times, thereby making Saudi Arabia an even more attractive destination for international businesses.
Recognition and Future Endeavors
The year 2024 proved to be a momentous one for Mawani, as it received eight national, regional, and international awards, further solidifying its reputation within the industry. As 2025 commenced, Mawani continued its winning streak by securing the 'Logistics Platform Award' at the prestigious ShipTek International Awards. These accolades serve as a testament to Mawani's unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation in the transport and logistics sector.
Looking ahead, Mawani's vision remains clear: to elevate Saudi Arabia's status as a global logistics hub that not only serves the region but also connects the world. By investing in state-of-the-art infrastructure and fostering public-private partnerships, Mawani is well-positioned to meet the challenges of the future. The Kingdom's strategic location, combined with its enhanced logistics capabilities, will undoubtedly attract increased trade and investment, thereby contributing to the overall economic diversification efforts outlined in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
A Bright Future for Saudi Arabia’s Logistics Sector
Mawani's dual triumphs at the TLME Awards 2025 illuminate the significant strides made by Saudi Arabia in the realms of ports infrastructure and logistics. The Kingdom's commitment to developing state-of-the-art facilities and fostering an environment conducive to innovation will undoubtedly yield long-term benefits for its economy and global trade relations. As Mawani continues to pave the way forward, Saudi Arabia is set to emerge as a formidable player in the global logistics arena, redefining the future of transportation and trade in the region.
