NEOM’s strategic port successfully trials a new corridor, significantly cutting shipment times between Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Iraq.
NEOM, Saudi Arabia – The Port of NEOM has successfully completed a pilot trial of a new strategic intra-regional trade corridor. This initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Logistics Private Sector Engagement Council, has more than halved shipment transit times compared to traditional routes, enhancing regional connectivity.
The pilot project saw the first shipments depart from Cairo, Egypt, transit through Safaga Port, cross the Red Sea to the Port of NEOM, and then continue overland to Erbil, Iraq. This comprehensive route covered over 900 kilometres, demonstrating a highly efficient and integrated logistics solution. The reduction in transit time from Egypt exceeded 50%.
This success highlights effective integration among various governmental and regulatory bodies, including the Transport General Authority and the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority. Private-sector partners, such as shipowners, exporters, importers, and logistics companies, also played a crucial role. This collaborative effort signals broader potential for reducing costs and transit times across other regional and global trade corridors.
The initiative reinforces the Port of NEOM’s growing role in advancing Saudi Arabia’s maritime and logistics goals, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. Its unique strategic location on the Red Sea, near the Arar border with Iraq, positions it as a vital regional gateway. This connectivity facilitates seamless trade flows between Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, unlocking new opportunities for cross-border commerce and economic growth.
Source: Saudi Press Agency (SPA)
