DP World has deployed 17 automated electric rubber-tyred gantry (AeRTG) cranes at its South Container Terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port in Saudi Arabia, strengthening container-handling capabilities while reducing emissions from port operations.
The deployment represents an investment of SAR 210 million (approximately US$56 million) and forms part of DP World’s wider US$800 million modernisation programme at the terminal. The initiative aims to improve operational efficiency, expand yard capacity and support growing cargo volumes through one of Saudi Arabia’s key trade gateways.
Electric Cranes Reduce Emissions
The newly deployed cranes are expected to reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions per crane by approximately 64% compared with conventional diesel-powered equipment.
Equipped with automation, intelligent positioning and remote-control technology, the cranes are designed to improve the precision and consistency of container movements. Operators control the equipment from dedicated stations, while electric drive systems eliminate direct diesel exhaust emissions during operation and help reduce noise levels.
Following the deployment, the terminal’s rubber-tyred gantry crane fleet comprises 77 units, including 50 electric and automated cranes. These account for approximately 65% of the total fleet, marking further progress towards more sustainable cargo-handling operations.
Annual Capacity Target of Five Million TEUs
The crane investment is part of DP World’s broader plan to increase the South Container Terminal’s annual container-handling capacity from 3.9 million to five million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs).
The modernisation programme includes infrastructure improvements, expanded container-yard capabilities and investments in handling equipment to accommodate rising trade demand.
Higher equipment availability and more efficient container positioning are expected to support smoother yard operations and improve the movement of containers between vessels, storage areas and onward transport.
Strengthening Saudi Arabia’s Trade Gateway
Jeddah Islamic Port is a major gateway for Saudi Arabia’s imports and exports, connecting the Kingdom with regional and international markets through Red Sea shipping routes.
DP World’s continued investment in automation and electrification is intended to strengthen the port’s competitiveness, improve service reliability for shipping lines and cargo owners, and support Saudi Arabia’s logistics development ambitions under Vision 2030.
With the latest cranes now deployed, the terminal is advancing towards higher handling capacity and lower-emission operations as it prepares for future growth in containerised trade.