The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is currently immersed in a deep transformation process led by its Vision 2030 and the subsequent Vision Realisation Programmes detailing the path towards a modernised, sustainable and diversified economy for a vibrant society.
A pillar of this journey is the reduction of dependency on the oil and gas sector, opening the country to high value-added activities, new industrial sectors and the internationalisation of the economy, leveraging the Kingdom’s privileged position between Europe and Asia, aiming to become a global logistics hub.
The country’s trade dynamics are expected to change dramatically driven by this new economic paradigm, fostering imports and exports, as well as a new role in global supply chains, with transhipments, re-exports and transits expected to multiply. The National Transport and Logistics Strategy and resulting modal strategies are being activated to ensure the sector is ready for such ambitions.
Objectives, goals and purposes
Following this transformation process, the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) has launched its National Ports Master Plan, to:
- Increase the capacity of its ports to meet the country’s maritime traffic aspirations
- Refurbish existing infrastructure
- Achieve best-in-class operating performance
- Link the ports to the new railway network
- Embed the latest technology and environmental industry trends
Study methodology and activities
MAWANI engaged ALG as lead strategy and technical advisor to develop a comprehensive strategic master plan for its eight public ports, including Jeddah Islamic Port, Dammam Port, Jubail Industrial and Commercial Ports, Yanbu Industrial and Commercial Ports, Ras Al Khair Port and Jizan Port.
Success and outcomes
The assignment involves several stages, covering: analysis of the current state of the ports compared to best international practices; definition of a strategy for the overall network and ports; demand forecasts for all types of cargo; strategic master plans for each port; and definition of a plan establishing the way forward for activation of the master plans.