Saudi Global Ports (SGP) has acquired three automated quay cranes (QC) and three hybrid automated rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTG) at King Abdulaziz Port Dammam.
The new equipment is expected to increase SGP’s capacity from 2.5 million TEU to 3.2 million TEU, adding to the fleet of 15 QCs and 47 RTGs that SGP currently operates.
Notably, the QCs have a minimum outreach of 25 rows, with the option of expanding further, allowing SGP to handle bigger next-generation 24,000 TEU vessels with more productivity, convenience, and efficiency.
The new QCs and RTGs will be tested and commissioned for around eight weeks before they begin operating in August 2024.
SGP has also placed orders for a further 15 hybrid RTGs, which are scheduled to be delivered in July 2024.
CEO of SGP Edward Tah said: “The support of the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) in transforming KAPD and the positive economic trajectory of Saudi Arabia has given SGP the confidence to invest boldly in equipment and civil works.
“The arrival of these QCs and RTGs will strengthen SGP’s handling capacity, allowing us to provide better service levels to our customers and keep trade flowing.”
In October 2023, MAWANI and SGP agreed to create a fully integrated logistics park covering over 1 million square metres at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam.