Mawani announces new shipping service to boost Saudi Arabia’s connection to China & India 

RIYADH : The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) announced on Sunday the addition of the “Milaha Gulf Express 2″ (MGX-2), affiliated with the Qatari Navigation Company (Milaha), as a new shipping service to the King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam (KAPD).

This service connects Saudi Arabia to the ports of China and India. The move aligns with the objectives of the National Strategy for Transport and Logistics Services, aiming to consolidate KAPD’s position as a global logistics hub linking three continents.

The plan is designed to boost the port’s position and increase its competitiveness for exporters, importers, and shipping agents.

The addition of the MGX-2 service underscores KAPD’s growing role in supporting the global logistics chain, bolstered by its leading operational and logistical capabilities.

The port features 43 fully serviced and equipped berths, with a capacity of up to 105 million tons of goods and containers. It is equipped with 80 electric trucks, as well as a number of specialized stations and advanced, modern equipment that enable it to handle various types of goods.

The new shipping service connects KAPD to seven regional and international ports, including Ningbo, Shanghai, and Shekou in China; Nhava Sheva and Mundra in India; Sohar in Oman; and Hamad in Qatar. The service will operate regular bi-monthly trips with a capacity of up to 9,000 standard containers.

KAPD received 21 coastal and bridge cranes this year, contributing to the development and modernization of the port. These enhancements are part of KAPD’s transformation into a flexible and sustainable logistics center capable of receiving advanced and large ships with full productivity and high efficiency.