Saudi Global Ports (SGP) has announced that it has commenced the first phase of its upgrading and development program at First and Second Container Terminals in King Abdulaziz Port Dammam (KAPD).

In a statement, SGP said the First Container Terminal which has been in operations for more than 30 years will be upgraded; while the Second Container Terminal will also be expanded to serve the next generation of mega vessels.

SGP said it will also focus on incorporating sustainability to minimize the environmental impact of terminal operations in the terminals.

"In addition, smart port designs will be introduced to enhance SGP’s benchmark productivity as well as upskill jobs for Saudi nationals," it said, adding that this includes allocating an area to test new technologies in automation and connectivity, among others.

The signing ceremony on July 13 also coincided with the President of Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) H.E Omar Hariri’s tour of SGP facilities, as part of his first visit to KAPD shortly after his appointment as President of Mawani in July 2021.

"Under H.E Omar’s leadership, Mawani will realize the ambitious plans to develop port infrastructure, focusing on digital transformation to enhance integration and connectivity within and outside the Kingdom, to compete with the largest and best international Ports," it said.

Under Saudi Arabia's "National Strategy for Transport and Logistics" unveiled recently by H.R.H. the Crown Prince, a strong maritime sector will contribute towards positioning the Kingdom as a global logistics hub across three continents; a key pillar to support a thriving economy under Vision 2030.

Edward Tah, SGP’s chief executive officer said he is confident that the technical expertise of Jacobs Engineering Group (Jacobs) as the Civil Engineering Consultant, coupled with PSA’s global experience will push the port closer to the goals set by the Kingdom.

"We are taking progressive steps towards transforming Dammam into a leading international container port equipped with digital and smart capabilities, and continue to contribute towards Mawani and the Kingdom’s plans for a transformational transport and logistics sector," he added.

H.E Omar Hariri and the chairman of SGP Board Abdulla Zamil witnessed the signing ceremony between SGP’s chief executive officer, Edward Tah, and Jacobs’s Director for Growth and Business Development in Saudi Arabia Omar Al Zahrani.