Saudi Minister Al-Jasser Celebrates New Logistics Corridor Construction Linkage
Foundation Stone Laid for Logistics Corridor in Saudi Arabia
In a major development for Saudi Arabia's logistics sector, His Excellency Eng. Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, initiated the construction of a new logistics corridor aimed at enhancing the country’s logistics capacity. This project, involving a significant investment of over $183.7 million, connects Jeddah Islamic Port with Al-Khumrah Logistics Park through a dedicated, efficient transportation route.
Key Features of the Project
The logistics corridor spans approximately 17 kilometers and is designed with two lanes in each direction. Notably, it will include 12 overpasses and emergency access points, maintaining a seamless flow of truck traffic. Additionally, the project integrates a comprehensive rainwater drainage system, ensuring that operations remain uninterrupted regardless of weather conditions. This effort aims to bypass the existing urban road network of Jeddah, facilitating quick and efficient transport routes and minimizing urban congestion.
Al-Jasser highlighted the potential impact of this corridor, stating that it is expected to boost the handling capacity of Jeddah Islamic Port by 10%. The dedicated route not only aims to streamline truck movements but also enhances safety by segregating heavy truck traffic from general urban traffic. This project also targets reductions in urban congestion, noise, and visual pollution, contributing towards lower carbon emissions in the region.
A Strategic Milestone for Saudi Arabia
Described as a pivotal component of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy, this initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s overarching ambition to establish itself as a premier global logistics hub that connects Europe, Asia, and Africa. The corridor is also poised to bolster multimodal integration and supply chain efficiencies, which are crucial for enhancing the facilitation of trade and the operational performance of Jeddah Islamic Port. With this project, there are expectations for increased investment opportunities in logistics and transport sectors, along with enhanced value for stakeholders, including transporters, importers, exporters, and shipping firms.
Jeddah Islamic Port: A Major Trade Hub
As a vital gateway on the Red Sea coast, Jeddah Islamic Port covers 12.5 square kilometers and operates 62 multi-purpose berths. The port features state-of-the-art terminals and specialized facilities essential for both regional and international trade. The establishment of this logistics corridor further signifies Saudi Arabia's commitment to upgrading its infrastructure and enhancing its logistics capabilities, thereby advancing towards the economic diversification goals outlined in Vision 2030.
In conclusion, as Saudi Arabia continues to strengthen its logistics infrastructure, the newly laid foundation stone for this logistics corridor marks another landmark step in the country's commitment to enhancing global trade connections. Minister Al-Jasser’s dedication to transforming Saudi Arabia’s transport and logistics landscape echoes the broader objectives of improving economic resilience and competitiveness on a global scale.