Maersk has announced that it will introduce a new port call at Jeddah on its AE15 Gemini Cooperation service from August, further strengthening trade connectivity between Asia, Europe and Saudi Arabia following the service’s return to the trans-Suez Canal route.
The move comes after the shipping line’s previously announced decision to resume transits through the Suez Canal, replacing the longer routing around the Cape of Good Hope as regional security conditions continue to improve.
According to Maersk, the addition of Jeddah to the AE15 rotation will significantly enhance cargo connectivity to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia while providing faster transit times for shipments moving between Asia and Europe. The enhanced service is expected to benefit importers, exporters and logistics providers by improving schedule efficiency and expanding access to one of the region’s key maritime gateways.
The AE15 service forms part of the Gemini Cooperation, the strategic operational partnership between Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, designed to deliver a more reliable and efficient global liner network.
Despite the service’s return to the Red Sea route, Maersk said it will continue to closely monitor the security situation in the Middle East in coordination with Hapag-Lloyd. The company noted that any further adjustments to the Gemini network will depend on developments in the Red Sea, with contingency plans already in place should vessels need to resume routing via the Cape of Good Hope.
The addition of Jeddah underscores Maersk’s commitment to strengthening regional connectivity while maintaining operational flexibility amid evolving geopolitical conditions.
