CMA CGM’s Vasco de Gama, an ultra-large container vessel (ULCV) with a capacity of 18,000 TEUs, has become the largest container ship ever to call at ACT Duqm, marking a significant milestone for the Omani port’s growing role in global maritime trade.
The record-breaking port call highlights ACT Duqm’s ability to accommodate next-generation mega container vessels, reflecting ongoing investments in deep-water infrastructure, advanced cargo-handling equipment, and terminal capabilities. The achievement reinforces Duqm’s emergence as a strategic logistics hub connecting Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
Port officials said the successful handling of the vessel demonstrates the terminal’s operational readiness to serve larger ships while offering efficient turnaround times and reliable services for international shipping lines. The milestone is expected to enhance the port’s attractiveness for mainline services and transshipment operations.
The arrival of the Vasco de Gama also supports Oman’s broader strategy of strengthening its maritime sector and diversifying the economy through investments in ports, logistics, and industrial infrastructure. As container traffic continues to grow, ACT Duqm aims to expand its role in regional and global supply chains by attracting more large vessel calls and increasing cargo throughput.
Industry observers view the record vessel call as an important step in positioning ACT Duqm among the leading deep-water ports in the region, capable of supporting evolving shipping networks and the deployment of increasingly larger container ships.