Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd will relaunch their FM1 container shipping service under the Gemini Cooperation, restoring direct maritime connectivity between Asia and the Middle East after its suspension amid regional security concerns.
The service will connect major Asian ports with Khor Fakkan in the United Arab Emirates, providing an additional ocean freight option for cargo moving to the Gulf region.
The revised port rotation will be Qingdao – Ningbo – Tanjung Pelepas – Khor Fakkan – Singapore – Qingdao. Notably, Khor Fakkan replaces Jebel Ali in the service rotation, offering access to a port outside the Strait of Hormuz.
The first sailing will be operated by Maersk Athabasca on voyage 642W, scheduled to depart Qingdao on October 17, 2026, and arrive at Khor Fakkan on November 16, 2026.
The relaunch is expected to provide customers with additional direct shipping connectivity to the UAE and onward access to destinations across the Upper Gulf. Maersk’s existing inland transport solutions will complement the ocean service to support cargo movement to regional markets.
However, existing booking restrictions and cargo acceptance guidelines for Middle East shipments will remain in force. Both carriers said they would continue monitoring the regional security situation, with any further service changes depending on developments in the region.
The resumption represents a step towards restoring container shipping capacity on the Asia–Middle East corridor while maintaining precautions for vessel, crew and cargo safety.