As part of a number of mega-infrastructure projects in the country, Saudi Arabia is to invest US$30 billion into its seaport infrastructure.
Dimitris Kostianis, transport strategy advisor for the Saudi Arabia Ports Authority, said that at a national level, the country is experiencing sufficient capacity at its ports.
However, it still needs to guard against the risk of overcapacity, according to Seatrade Global.
Kostianis said: “As effective links in the transport chain, ports need to have good access and connectivity to hinterland road and rail networks, and good logistics facilities and services. The master plans foresee action in both areas in terms of concrete investment and high priority.”
Kostianis went on to say that if an integrated strategic planning framework is to be provided for Saudi Arabia, more decisive co-ordination would be needed, thereby improving connectivity between its road and rail ports.
The framework includes allowing more scope for private sector involvement in national port and transport development.
The country’s largest port, Jeddah Islamic Port, experienced throughput of around 4.6 million TEU in 2013.
In terms of future plans, Saudi Arabia plans to focus its attention on developments for King Abdullah Port at Rabigh.
