Akkon Lines has expanded its Jeddah Express Service (JXS) by adding Iskenderun, Türkiye, to its port rotation, strengthening maritime connectivity between Türkiye and Saudi Arabia and providing shippers with an additional direct shipping link to the Red Sea region. The update was reported on October 18, 2026.
With the addition of Iskenderun, the service now connects five Turkish ports with Jeddah Islamic Port in Saudi Arabia. The revised port rotation is Izmit – Gemlik – Istanbul (Ambarli) – Aliaga – Iskenderun – Jeddah – Izmit.
Akkon Lines deploys two container vessels on the JXS service, with an average capacity of approximately 1,100 TEUs each. Sailings operate at 10-day intervals, offering regular cargo connections between Turkish ports and the Saudi Arabian market.
The inclusion of Iskenderun is expected to improve shipping options for exporters and importers in southern Türkiye, providing access to Jeddah and onward connections through Akkon Lines’ regional network. The service supports the movement of containerised cargo and offers businesses an additional option for transporting goods between the Eastern Mediterranean and the Arabian Peninsula.
Jeddah Islamic Port serves as a major gateway for Saudi Arabia’s international trade, while Iskenderun provides access to industrial and commercial centres in southern Türkiye. Improved connectivity between the ports could support bilateral trade and strengthen regional supply chains.
The service expansion reflects continued efforts by shipping lines to broaden regional coverage and provide more flexible maritime transport options. By adding Iskenderun, Akkon Lines is strengthening its presence in the Türkiye–Saudi Arabia trade corridor and enhancing its network across the Red Sea region.