Situated on the global trade route, the port was conceived of as a Middle Eastern hub, to facilitate trade between Asia and Europe. It serves Saudi Arabia, the Middle Eastern and Arabian Gulf markets, in addition to the borders that link them.
“Our strategic location as the closest port to the Suez Canal with access to both the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean allows for fast, safe and easy access for a transfer of goods,” says the port’s Chief Executive Officer, Rayan Mustafa Qutub.
“Our proximity to the industrial projects in Jeddah, Rabigh and Yanbu, as well as the residential compounds in Jeddah, Mecca and Medina is a huge point in our favour. In addition, we employ modern methods of implementation, and use the latest and most advanced devices and services. Our skilled and multi-disciplined work force allows us to handle ships and goods quickly and effectively.”
The port boasts an exceptional infrastructure. Facilities include multi-purpose terminals that cater to containers, ro-ro and bulk cargo, more than 30 deepwater berths that can handle next-generation vessels, the world’s biggest and most advances container-handling cranes, direct round-the-clock link to inter-city highways, and a dedicated terminal for the Saudi Railway Land bridge.
Transportation links include a railway terminal for freight and cargo that links the port to the main regions of Saudi Arabia with a capacity of 6.5 million teu; and also provides proximity to the Industrial Valley at King Abdullah Economic City, which offers the opportunity to buy or lease appropriate-sized plots of land to accommodate both current and future business needs.
In addition to the industrial areas and logistics, there are specialised zones dedicated to special requirements. Amongst these is the Gas Zone, which will be developed in Phase-II to supply natural gas for investors of specific industries holding the requisite gas allocations, to enjoy a significant cost advantage.
Directly adjacent to King Abdullah Port, the Bonded and Re-export Zone (BRZ) is a securely controlled area that offers land and facilities for the storage of imported goods net of duty, streamlined import/export processes and support services for global logistics and supply chain operators.
There is also a Technological Park, which is a unique district within the Industrial Valley, and which focuses on the future, providing the ideal infrastructure and environment for innovation.
“Ready facilities are now available to expand or set up new businesses,” says Qutub. “Our Industrial Valley Logistics Park currently offers 1,026 sq metre units of flexible space for storage, office space or light manufacturing, and the set-up to accommodate both EU and US palettes. The park has 24/7 security and ready-installed fire alarm systems for added peace of mind.”
King Abdullah Port is conscious of the need to reduce potential hazards to the environment, and therefore uses sensitive equipment to monitor air and water quality at various locations within the port.
“The port has an innovative design that respects the surrounding marine environment,” says Qutub. “We also try to minimise use of toxic substances, and promote rationalisation and management of energy and water consumption.”
Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved. Seatrade, a trading name of Informa Markets (UK) Limited.
Add Seatrade Maritime News to your Google News feed.  |
