Egyptian Port Development Quadruples Cargo Handling as Infrastructure Expands, Madbouly Says
Shipping Arabia, October 27, 2026 – Egyptian port development has helped increase cargo handling volumes approximately fourfold, according to Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly. The expansion has increased the number of seaports, extended quay infrastructure and improved port depths. These investments form part of Egypt’s strategy to strengthen international trade connectivity and establish itself as a global cargo handling and logistics hub.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of Egypt Forum 2026, Madbouly outlined major infrastructure improvements across maritime ports, land border crossings, dry ports, logistics zones and airports. He emphasized that Egypt’s infrastructure program aims to improve domestic connectivity while strengthening access to international markets.
Egyptian Port Development Expands Maritime Capacity
Madbouly said Egypt has increased its number of seaports from 14 to 19, significantly expanding the country’s maritime infrastructure. Total quay length has risen from 37 kilometers to 100 kilometers, while maximum port depths have increased from 15 meters to 25 meters.
According to the prime minister, these improvements have contributed to an approximately fourfold increase in cargo handling volumes. The expansion reflects Egypt’s efforts to improve the operational capabilities of its seaports and strengthen their role in international trade.
Madbouly also highlighted the Suez Canal expansion project as part of Egypt’s broader transport infrastructure strategy. The project complements investments in maritime facilities aimed at improving the country’s position in global cargo movement and logistics services.
Major Developments at Sokhna, East Port Said and Other Ports
The prime minister reviewed several major port development projects, including the transformation of Sokhna Port. He also highlighted the port’s recognition by Guinness World Records, citing it among Egypt’s significant maritime infrastructure achievements.
East Port Said Port featured prominently in his remarks. Madbouly stated that the port had reached third place globally and first place regionally in container handling, highlighting its position in the maritime sector.
Other developments included the construction of Gargoub Port in Matrouh, western Egypt, alongside improvements at Alexandria Port, Damietta Port and West Port Said Port.
Madbouly also referenced the development of Tahya Misr terminals as part of the country’s wider port modernization program. Together, these projects are intended to improve maritime connectivity and support Egypt’s ability to handle international trade flows.
Expansion of Dry Ports and Logistics Infrastructure
Beyond maritime infrastructure, Egypt has expanded its network of land border crossings, dry ports and logistics zones to improve connections between different transport systems.
Madbouly said the number of land ports has increased from seven to nine. Meanwhile, the combined network of dry ports and logistics zones has reached 33 facilities across the country.
He highlighted several examples of infrastructure development, including the Taba border crossing, Qustul Port in southern Egypt and Sallum Port in the country’s far west. He also referenced Badr Dry Port in Adabiya as part of the expanding logistics network.
According to Madbouly, the development of these facilities aims to improve cargo movement and strengthen connections between ports and other transport modes. The program also seeks to enhance logistics services supporting trade and economic activity.
This integrated approach forms part of Egypt’s ambition to capitalize on its geographical position and improve connectivity with international markets.
Airport Expansion Complements Egypt’s Transport Strategy
Madbouly also outlined developments in Egypt’s aviation infrastructure, highlighting the expansion and modernization of airports as another component of the national transport program.
He said the number of airports has increased from 19 to 23, while total passenger handling capacity has risen from 53 million to 73 million passengers. The previous capacity figure included nine million tourists, according to his presentation.
The expansion involved constructing four additional airports while upgrading the 19 existing facilities. Madbouly highlighted improvements at airports serving Sharm El Sheikh, Sphinx, Al Arish and Alexandria.
He also pointed to technological upgrades across airport facilities as part of efforts to modernize the aviation network.
The prime minister emphasized that investments in maritime ports, inland logistics infrastructure and airports are designed to strengthen Egypt’s connections with global markets. Together with the Suez Canal expansion project, these developments support the country’s ambition to become an international center for cargo handling, trade and logistics.
Source: Al Mal