Ports and terminals in the Middle East provide access to a growing consumer market. Oil revenue and economic development in the region are fueling the modernization and expansion of seaports. The Middle East is rapidly becoming one of the most dynamic maritime centers in the world.

Your expansion should begin with a feasibility study and plan for establishing your operation in a Middle Eastern port. Once you have decided on a location for expansion, work with professionals with experience in the region to get your business on the fast track to success.

The following steps will help you to get your Middle Eastern port expansion off the ground:

1. Locate the Middle Eastern port of interest to your business.

2. Optimize the operation of your terminal in any Middle Eastern port.

3. Utilize cargo handlers with experience in Middle Eastern ports.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find ports in the Middle East by country

Several Middle Eastern countries have ports. The Internet offers multiple directories for locating ports by country.

I recommend: Overseas Maritime provides a Middle East ports list. Selected ports in the region are listed by country. Click on the link to access more information about each port. World Port Source offers an interactive map of Middle East ports by country. Click on the icon in the country in which you are interested to access information on major ports in Middle East nations.

Streamline your expansion into any port in the Middle East

Utilize the knowledge and experience of experts to make your new operation in the Middle East efficient. Several companies specialize in improving terminal operations in ports. Applications are available to help you through all phases of the maritime shipping process.

I recommend: Cosmos offers consultancy services to make your terminal operations run smoothly. From keeping track of vessels to monitoring terminal operations, it has applications to improve your operation. The Seaport Group offers a range of services to help you expand your business. It offers feasibility studies, project planning services, automation technologies and various analyses.

Hire a cargo handler with experience with ports in the Middle East

Several cargo handling companies are experienced with and offer services in ports and terminals in the Middle East. Your business can benefit from their established relationships in the region.

I recommend: DP World is focused on container terminal operations, and provides a variety of cargo handling services in the Middle East from general cargo to bulk cargo and ro-ro vessels. The company is the first to be certified in the Customs-Trade Partnership against Terrorism (C-TPAT) initiative by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. APM Terminals offers innovative container terminal services. It has a history of improving efficiency of operations in Middle Eastern ports and terminals.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Middle East terminals and ports are subject to differing laws. Be sure to check with both your home country and destination country to see if there are any restrictions on the transport of goods.
• •  Middle East port cities may be subject to political instability. Check with your country to see if there are any security advisories.