Jeddah Islamic Port strengthens role in Gemini AE15 and AE19 shipping services
Saudi Ports Authority boosts Jeddah Islamic Port’s status as a main hub for Gemini’s AE15 and AE19 routes, enhancing direct links to Asia and Europe.
Key Takeaways
AIThe Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has announced the strengthening of Jeddah Islamic Port’s position as a key hub on the AE15 and AE19 services operated by the Gemini Cooperation alliance, which includes Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd. The update to both routes, now passing through the Bab Al-Mandab Strait and the Suez Canal, will enhance Saudi Arabia’s direct maritime connectivity with major markets in Asia and Europe.
The authority explained that this update reaffirms Jeddah Islamic Port’s pivotal role in global shipping networks. The port is now included twice on the AE19 service rotation: first on the westbound journey from Asia to the Mediterranean, and again on the southbound return, providing broader connectivity options and greater flexibility for cargo movement to and from the Kingdom.
Direct links with Asian and European ports
The AE15 service connects Jeddah Islamic Port with Qingdao and Ningbo in China, Kwangyang in South Korea, Tanjung Pelepas in Malaysia, and passes through the Suez Canal, Port Said and Damietta in Egypt, Colombo in Sri Lanka, as well as Singapore. The AE19 service links the port to Shanghai, Qingdao, and Ningbo in China, Busan in South Korea, Tanjung Pelepas in Malaysia, and also passes through the Suez Canal, Port Said in Egypt, Tangier in Morocco, and Singapore.
Shorter operational cycle
The recent update has reduced the full operational cycle by about two weeks, from 16 weeks to 14 weeks, while maintaining weekly sailings. This increases fleet efficiency and enhances service quality for importers and exporters.
Jeddah Islamic Port’s selection as a main hub for these services builds on its strategic location on the Red Sea, advanced operational capabilities, and modern infrastructure, making it attractive to global shipping lines. This supports its role as a primary maritime gateway for the Kingdom on one of the world’s most important trade routes, and further establishes Saudi Arabia as a global logistics center, in line with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030.