The Saudi Port Authority (Mawani) announced that it has signed an agreement with Cruise Saudi and Globe Group to build a new cruise terminal at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam and develop four berths in the port and Yanbu Commercial Port . The authorities stated in a statement that this move is part of its ongoing efforts to support the Kingdom’s tourism industry by supporting navigation along the Arabian Gulf and Red Sea coastlines, in line with the goals of the national transportation and logistics strategy.

Saudi port construction

Mawani President Omarbin Talal Hariri said: "We are very pleased to support the national transportation and logistics strategy to develop cruise terminals and deeper berths to accommodate international cruise ships; after signing an agreement with Cruise Saudi Managing Director Engineer Fawaz Farooqui; and Globe Group CEO MaadAbduljawad.

TalalHariri said that the agreement further enhances Saudi Arabia's position as a leader in the cruise industry and enhances the tourist experience for guests in the kingdom. "We will continue to work with our partners to develop a sustainable and prosperous marine transportation ecosystem, contribute to the competitiveness of Saudi Arabia’s ports, support the country’s socio-economic aspirations, and help realize the vision of 2030 Ambitious." Keywords: engineering construction, engineering news

The agreement was signed after the opening of the first cruise terminal in the Islamic Port of Jeddah in early 2021. The opening of the terminal also witnessed the maiden voyage of MSC Bellissima to various destinations in the region in July. It also cooperated with Mediterranean Cruise Line to announce a series of training programs for Saudi professionals in various maritime industries.Editor/XingWentao