Jeddah Islamic Port named key hub for Gemini’s AE19, E16 shipping routes

The Saudi Ports Authority has designated Jeddah Islamic Port as a vital stopover on Gemini Cooperation's AE19 and E16 shipping routes, bolstering the Arabian nation's ties to Asia and Europe. The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has elevated Jeddah Islamic Port to a primary hub on the AE19 and E16 shipping services, which are managed by the collaborative alliance Gemini Cooperation, composed of major shipping firms such as Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd.

This decision will integrate the port into critical maritime pathways, including the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Suez Canal, thereby enhancing Saudi Arabia's direct maritime connectivity with significant markets in Asia and Europe. The strategic placement of Jeddah Islamic Port on the Red Sea, coupled with its advanced operational capabilities and state-of-the-art infrastructure, positions it as an increasingly appealing destination for global shipping lines, solidifying its role as a central maritime gateway for Saudi Arabia on one of the world's most vital trade routes.

The updated AE19 service will traverse the port twice – once on its westbound voyage from Asia to the Mediterranean and again on its return journey southbound – thereby offering expanded connectivity and flexibility for cargo transportation to and from the Kingdom. This change will also reduce the total operational cycle of the AE19 service from 16 weeks to 14 weeks, maintaining weekly sailings and bolstering fleet efficiency while enhancing service quality for importers and exporters.

As a result, Jeddah Islamic Port's standing as a central hub linking Saudi Arabia to global markets will be further cemented, bolstering supply chain continuity and reinforcing the Kingdom's ports and logistics sector. This development also aligns with Saudi Arabia's objective to become a leading global logistics center, in keeping with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and Vision 2030.