Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Port Adds New IMB1 Shipping Route to Boost Global Trade Links

Jeddah, The Gulf Observer: The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has unveiled the launch of the IMB1 shipping service, a new maritime route operated by CSTAR LINE, set to significantly enhance the connectivity of Jeddah Islamic Port with key international trade hubs.

The IMB1 service will link Jeddah with Nhava Sheva and Mundra in India, Evyap in Türkiye, Novorossiysk in Russia, and Jebel Ali in the United Arab Emirates. With a capacity of 2,100 TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units), the new route marks a strategic expansion of Jeddah’s maritime network.

The initiative is part of Mawani’s broader mission to strengthen maritime connectivity, streamline export-import flows, and support national economic development through efficient logistics.

“This new service reinforces our commitment to positioning Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub and a vital gateway connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa,” Mawani stated.

The move aligns with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to bolster Saudi Arabia’s role as a key player in global trade and enhance the competitiveness of its ports. By fostering strategic partnerships with leading global shipping lines, Mawani is focused on increasing operational efficiency, expanding port services, and maximizing throughput capacity.

Located along the strategic Red Sea coast, Jeddah Islamic Port is already a critical logistics center for the region. The addition of the IMB1 service is expected to further elevate its status as a premier maritime gateway, facilitating smoother trade flows and accelerating the Kingdom’s economic diversification agenda under Vision 2030.