Iran’s Ports Lag in Regional Competition; Saudi Arabia’s Rapid Growth in Maritime Infrastructure Development
Sea News – International Desk While Iran faces multiple challenges in the development of its ports and maritime infrastructure, regional countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, have strengthened their position in maritime trade through large-scale investments and the adoption of modern technologies, continuously enhancing their competitive advantages.
Saudi Arabia’s Rapid Advancements in Maritime Infrastructure
The inauguration of the South Container Terminal at Jeddah Port, a project carried out in collaboration with the international company DP World and the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani), is a prime example of these remarkable advancements. This $800 million investment has increased the terminal’s capacity from 1.8 million TEU to 4 million TEU, with future plans to expand it to 5 million TEU.
Targeted Investments and Sustainable Development in Saudi Arabia
This project is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform the country into a regional commercial and transit hub. The new terminal at Jeddah Port utilizes artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and smart cargo tracking systems, enhancing the speed and accuracy of port operations. Notable improvements include:
- Reduction in customs processing time from two minutes to ten seconds
- Use of electric and automated cranes
- Increased capacity for refrigerated containers
- Construction of the largest refrigerated cargo inspection center in Saudi Arabia
These initiatives reflect the country’s focus on efficiency, sustainable development, and improved operational standards.
Additionally, the establishment of the Jeddah Logistics Park next to the terminal—Saudi Arabia’s largest logistics complex—will boost the country’s role in the global supply chain, strengthening its connectivity between Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Challenges Facing Iran in Competing with Regional Ports
In contrast, Iran faces significant challenges in developing its ports and maritime infrastructure, including:
- Aging Equipment and Infrastructure
- Investment Limitations: International sanctions, economic instability, and the lack of foreign investment have caused delays or stagnation in many Iranian port projects.
- Lack of Advanced Logistics Infrastructure: The absence of modern distribution centers and logistics parks near Iranian ports reduces efficiency and weakens the country’s competitiveness.
- Delays in Strategic Projects: The Chabahar Port, which had the potential to become a major regional transit hub, has yet to achieve its full potential due to internal and international obstacles.
- Underutilization of Iran’s Strategic Location: Despite its access to open waters and a prime location along international trade corridors, Iran has not fully leveraged these advantages due to ineffective planning and lack of structural support.
The Growing Gap in Regional Maritime Development
The rapid development of ports in countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar demonstrates their strategic planning and substantial investments in becoming key players in global trade. Meanwhile, despite its vast potential, Iran has struggled to maintain its position due to internal barriers and international sanctions.
Failing to take swift and effective action in this sector could isolate Iran from critical regional and global maritime trade developments. Now is the time for Iran’s maritime and transport policymakers to adopt strategic solutions to restore the country’s competitiveness in the maritime industry. Otherwise, the gap between Iran and its regional competitors will continue to widen.
