Latest news with #NationalTransportStrategy
Arab News
11 hours ago
- Business
- Arab News
Saudi ports post 13% rise in container volume in May: Mawani
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's seaports handled 720,684 twenty-foot equivalent units in May, a 13 percent year-on-year jump, driven by growth in imports, exports, and transshipment activity, official figures showed. According to data from the Saudi Ports Authority, also known as Mawani, imported containers rose 15.84 percent from a year earlier to 292,223 TEUs, while exported volumes increased 9.38 percent to 279,318 TEUs. Transport, or transshipment, containers also climbed 12.89 percent to 149,143 TEUs, reflecting the Kingdom's growing role as a regional trade hub. The uptick in activity highlights the ongoing expansion of port infrastructure and logistics services across the country. It also supports the goals of Saudi Arabia's National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a global logistics center under Vision 2030. In a release, Mawani stated: 'The total tonnage handled — general cargo, solid bulk cargo, and liquid bulk cargo — increased by 1.40 percent to reach 21,337,699 tonnes compared to 21,042,684 tons during the same period last year.' It added: 'The total general cargo amounted to 935,932 tonnes, solid bulk cargo 5,059,899 tonnes, and liquid bulk cargo 15,341,868 tonnes.' The ports received 1.63 million heads of livestock, up 61.22 percent compared to 1.01 million during the same period last year. Maritime traffic also picked up, with vessel calls rising 9.39 percent to 1,083 ships, while the number of passengers grew 68.15 percent to reach 95,231. The number of vehicles handled increased by 13.09 percent year on year to 84,352 units. The positive momentum follows a strong performance in April, when Saudi ports handled 625,430 standard containers, up 13.4 percent from a year earlier. In 2024, Mawani announced several major initiatives, including agreements and groundbreaking projects to establish eight new logistics parks and hubs at Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, with a combined private sector investment of approximately SR2.9 billion ($773 million). These efforts are part of a broader strategy to enhance the competitiveness of Saudi ports and reinforce the Kingdom's position as a global trade and logistics hub. The initiatives form part of a larger SR10 billion investment plan to develop 18 logistics parks across Saudi terminals, all overseen by Mawani.
Leaders
28-01-2025
- Business
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Unveils ‘Dream of the Desert': Luxury Train to Launch in 2026
Saudi Arabia Unveils 'Dream of the Desert': Luxury Train to Launch in 2026 Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) and Italy's Arsenale Group unveiled final designs for the Middle East's first five-star luxury train the 'Dream of the Desert'. Inspired by desert landscapes and Saudi architecture, interiors showcase refined craftsmanship. Earthy tones, luxurious textiles, and intricate details create a serene, culturally rich ambiance. Iconic motifs from Madain Saleh and Hail blend seamlessly into the train's aesthetic, merging heritage with modernity. A New Era in Luxury Travel The 14-carriage train features 34 luxury suites, offering intimate journeys across Saudi Arabia's Northern Railway network. Departing from Riyadh, guests will explore heritage sites and natural wonders. Curated cultural programs, developed with the Ministry of Culture, promise immersive experiences in Saudi traditions. Tourism itineraries by the Saudi Tourism Authority will deepen travelers' connection to local heritage. Strategic Collaborations Enhance Experience SAR CEO Dr. Bashar Al-Malik highlighted the project's alignment with Vision 2030. 'We attract global investments to advance transport solutions and boost economic growth,' he stated. Arsenale CEO Paolo Barletta praised the cross-sector partnership, calling the train 'a cultural immersion, not just a journey.' Bookings for the late-2026 launch will open soon via official channels. Transport Minister Saleh Al-Jasser emphasized the train's role in positioning Saudi Arabia as a global tourism leader. 'This project elevates infrastructure and travel standards,' he said. The National Transport Strategy aims to solidify the Kingdom's status as a logistics hub, blending innovation with cultural authenticity. Immersive Cultural & Culinary Experience Elegant lounges mirror traditional majlis settings, adorned with hand-carved wood and geometric patterns. Onboard dining merges heritage and sophistication, featuring menus by top local and international chefs. Art exhibits along corridors showcase Saudi landmarks, enriching passengers' understanding of the Kingdom's legacy. With design approvals complete, testing and crew training will begin in early 2026. The Dream of the Desert promises to set global benchmarks in luxury rail travel, inviting explorers to witness Saudi Arabia's transformative vision firsthand. Short link :
