The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has announced the addition of the new Pakistan Gulf Express (PGX) shipping service, operated by Ocean Network Express (ONE), to King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam. This strategic move, effective December 2024, enhances the port’s position and competitiveness for exporters, importers, and shipping agents, further solidifying the Kingdom’s role in global maritime trade.
Context and Background
King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam is a critical node in Saudi Arabia’s logistics infrastructure. With 43 fully equipped berths and a handling capacity of 105 million tons for cargo and containers, the port is equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure including specialized terminals and advanced equipment. This addition of the PGX service aligns with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to establish the Kingdom as a pivotal logistics hub connecting three continents.
Key Details of the PGX Service
The new PGX shipping service enhances connectivity by linking King Abdulaziz Port with key regional ports such as Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates, Hamad in Qatar, and Karachi in Pakistan. It boasts a capacity of 2,500 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units). This year, the port has also received 21 new coastal and gantry cranes and introduced 80 electric trucks, further modernizing its logistics operations and empowering it to manage advanced, large vessels with optimal productivity.
Implications and Impact
This development boosts Saudi Arabia’s connectivity within the Gulf and South Asian markets, facilitating smoother trade flows and enhancing the Kingdom’s attractiveness as a global logistics hub. The integration of electric trucks underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable practices within its logistics sector, aligning with broader environmental goals while increasing efficiency. The improved handling capacity and modern equipment also position King Abdulaziz Port to compete with leading regional ports, driving economic growth and trade diversification.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The addition of the PGX service to King Abdulaziz Port is a clear step toward realizing the objectives of Vision 2030, which prioritizes transforming Saudi Arabia into a premier global logistics destination. By enhancing connectivity, embracing sustainability, and modernizing infrastructure, the Kingdom continues to build a resilient and dynamic economy that connects continents and drives long-term prosperity. This initiative reflects Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to innovation and global partnership, setting the stage for a future of increased trade and investment opportunities.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Pakistan Gulf Express (PGX) shipping service?
A1. The PGX is a new shipping service operated by Ocean Network Express (ONE) that connects King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam with key ports in the Gulf and Pakistan, enhancing regional trade.
Q2. Who announced the addition of the PGX service?
A2. The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) announced the addition of the PGX service to King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam.
Q3. When was the PGX service added to King Abdulaziz Port?
A3. The addition was announced in December 2024, as part of ongoing improvements to the port’s connectivity and services.
Q4. Why is the PGX service important for King Abdulaziz Port?
A4. It enhances the port’s competitiveness by linking it directly to major regional ports, improving trade flows for exporters, importers, and shipping agents.
Q5. Which ports does the PGX service connect King Abdulaziz Port with?
A5. The service connects to Jebel Ali in the UAE, Hamad in Qatar, and Karachi in Pakistan.
Q6. What is the capacity of the PGX service?
A6. The service has a capacity of 2,500 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units).
Q7. What is the National Transport and Logistics Strategy?
A7. It is a Saudi initiative aimed at establishing the Kingdom as a pivotal logistics hub connecting three continents, aligning with Vision 2030.
Q8. How many berths does King Abdulaziz Port have?
A8. The port has 43 fully equipped berths to handle various cargo types efficiently.
Q9. What is the handling capacity of King Abdulaziz Port?
A9. It has a handling capacity of 105 million tons for cargo and containers.
Q10. What new equipment has King Abdulaziz Port received in 2024?
A10. The port received 21 new coastal and gantry cranes and introduced 80 electric trucks to modernize operations.
Q11. How do the electric trucks support sustainability?
A11. They reduce carbon emissions and align with Saudi Arabia’s environmental goals, making logistics operations more sustainable.
Q12. Who operates the PGX service?
A12. The service is operated by Ocean Network Express (ONE), a global shipping line.
Q13. What is the role of Mawani in Saudi ports?
A13. Mawani is the Saudi Ports Authority responsible for regulating, developing, and enhancing the competitiveness of the Kingdom’s ports.
Q14. How does the PGX service boost trade?
A14. It improves connectivity with key regional markets in the Gulf and South Asia, facilitating faster and more efficient cargo movement.
Q15. Is King Abdulaziz Port a key logistics hub?
A15. Yes, it is a critical node in Saudi Arabia’s logistics infrastructure, supporting national and international trade.
Q16. What types of cargo does the port handle?
A16. It handles a variety of cargo types, including containers, general cargo, and bulk goods, using specialized terminals.
Q17. How does this addition support Vision 2030?
A17. It supports Vision 2030 by enhancing logistics capabilities, boosting trade, and promoting sustainable practices in line with economic diversification goals.
Q18. What is the significance of the PGX service for exporters?
A18. Exporters gain better access to regional markets, reducing transit times and costs, which improves their global competitiveness.
Q19. How does the electric truck initiative help the port?
A19. It reduces environmental impact and operational costs while modernizing the port’s fleet, supporting long-term sustainability.
Q20. What future improvements are expected at King Abdulaziz Port?
A20. Continued modernization and capacity expansions are expected, further solidifying its role as a dynamic logistics centre under Saudi Arabia’s strategic initiatives.
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