NEOM port receives the first automated cranes and enhances its readiness for smart trade

The NEOM Port, the integrated logistics center in “Oxagon”, received the first batch of fully automated bridge cranes (STS) that are controlled remotely, which is devoted to transporting containers and goods from ships to the sidewalk, and the batch also included electronic bridge cranes with rubber tires (Ertg). This is the first equipment of its kind in the Kingdom, and from It will accelerate the operations of handling with high accuracy, raising the efficiency of the port and strengthening its position as a global center for smart and sustainable trade.

The new cranes will play a pivotal role in implementing the comprehensive automation strategy for the port, as it allows the implementation of highly efficient, sustainable and large handling processes, and the possibility of controlling them from a distance provides a business model equipped for the future, whereby the operators can manage equipment from safe and comfortable environments.

This step coincides with the acceleration of development work in the NEOM port, in preparation for the opening of the advanced container station No. (1) in 2026, which will apply an automated horizontal transfer system, as part of the port plan to achieve full automation. With the start of new technologies, the port’s logistical energy will double, supporting industrial growth in the region, expanding access to global markets, as well as enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of supply chains, and opening new business prospects.

The work of the construction of a berth of 900 meters has been completed and deepened the port channel to 18.5 meters, which allows the reception of the largest transit ships for the Suez Canal in the port, which is characterized by a strategic location on the Red Sea, one of the most crowded marine corridors in the world, which represents a vital gate on the road to trade between East and West.

“The arrival of automatic cranes is a pivotal step on our journey to build an advanced port and prepare for the future. The port’s role will not be limited to contributing to accelerating the pace of industrial growth in the northwest of the Kingdom only, but its location will also establish a major commercial gate for the Kingdom and the region, and putting new criteria for performance, efficiency and innovation.”

Parallel to his investments in infrastructure and automation, the NEOM port is committed to developing local cadres, as it launched a leading program to train Saudi women on advanced technical jobs, most notably the operation of remotely cranes, which contributes to the formulation of a more comprehensive future for logistics and industry sectors.

Ten trainees from the Tabuk region are currently participating in a two -year intensive program, which combines technical education, practical training and vocational guidance. Hajar Al -Atawi, one of the trainees in the program, said: “This experience showed me that the ports logistics are more complicated than just transporting goods, as it requires teamwork, accuracy and responsibility, and that more Saudi women join this field gives me hope for a promising future in which opportunities are determined based on skills and experiences.”

By enabling Saudi competencies with advanced technical skills, the port contributes to supporting Neum’s vision aimed at building a sustainable, innovative and varied industrial system, which enhances the durability of the national economy and effectively contributes to achieving the goals of the Saudi Vision 2030.