Aqaba Container Terminal

Shipping Arabia, October 24, 2026 – Aqaba ports cargo handling increased by 14.3% during the first nine months of 2026, reaching 20.51 million tons, as container throughput, vehicle movements and transit trade recorded substantial growth. The expansion was driven by higher imports, increased handling of essential commodities and growing cargo flows to regional markets, particularly Iraq, according to figures released by the Jordan Shipping Association.

Total cargo handling, excluding vehicles and containers, rose from approximately 17.95 million tons during the corresponding period of 2025. Import volumes exceeded 12.4 million tons, compared with around 9 million tons a year earlier, reflecting stronger cargo flows through Jordan’s maritime gateway.

Capt. Mohammad Al-Dalabih, Secretary General of the Jordan Shipping Association, said the figures demonstrate sustained maritime and commercial activity through Aqaba. He emphasized the importance of developing port infrastructure and improving operational efficiency to accommodate rising cargo volumes and transit traffic.

Aqaba Container Terminal Records Growth in Iraq-Bound Transit Traffic

Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT) handled 786,948 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEU) between January and September 2026, an increase of 6.6% compared with 738,349 TEU during the same period last year.

Transit container volumes recorded significantly stronger growth, rising 151.8% to 115,762 TEU, compared with approximately 45,000 TEU in the corresponding period of 2025. The increase highlights Aqaba’s expanding role in facilitating containerized trade to neighboring markets.

Iraq emerged as one of the main drivers of this expansion. Container traffic destined for the Iraqi market surged 1,040.5% to 56,286 TEU, compared with only 4,935 TEU during the first nine months of 2025.

Refrigerated import container traffic also increased, reflecting growing demand for temperature-controlled logistics services. Reefer imports rose 25.2% to 15,846 containers, compared with 12,129 containers a year earlier.

According to the Jordan Shipping Association, the increase underscores the importance of strengthening cold chain infrastructure, refrigerated storage facilities and supporting logistics services.

RoRo Vehicle Traffic Records Exceptional Growth

Aqaba’s roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) sector registered substantial increases in both vehicle imports and exports during the reporting period.

Vehicle imports rose 114.9% to 142,955 units, compared with 66,513 vehicles during the first nine months of 2025.

Meanwhile, vehicle exports increased by more than 1,245%, reaching 18,568 units, compared with just 1,380 vehicles during the corresponding period last year.

Al-Dalabih attributed much of this growth to expanding vehicle transit traffic through Aqaba toward Saudi Arabia and other Arabian Gulf markets.

The increase reinforces the importance of specialized vehicle-handling facilities, storage yards and associated logistics infrastructure in supporting regional automotive trade.

It also places greater emphasis on maintaining efficient vehicle handling and onward transportation as transit volumes continue to expand.

Grain Imports Increase as Iraqi Demand Strengthens

Bulk grain and essential food commodity imports recorded substantial growth during the first nine months of 2026, supported largely by increased demand from the Iraqi market.

Bulk corn imports increased 108.1%, exceeding 1.1 million tons, compared with approximately 552,000 tons during the corresponding period of 2025.

Soybean imports rose 72.9% to approximately 500,000 tons, compared with 288,000 tons a year earlier. Barley imports also increased 15.6%, reaching around 972,000 tons, up from approximately 841,000 tons.

Wheat imports recorded a 30.1% increase, reaching approximately 1.1 million tons, compared with 846,000 tons during the first nine months of 2025.

Al-Dalabih explained that the growth was closely linked to stronger Iraqi demand for grain and other essential commodities, which increased cargo movements through Aqaba’s ports.

He stressed the importance of maintaining efficient supply chains and ensuring that ports and border crossings have sufficient operational capacity to handle rising volumes.

According to the association, greater coordination between port operations, transportation providers and customs clearance procedures will be essential to maintaining cargo flows and meeting the requirements of domestic and regional markets.

Energy Cargo Expands While Livestock and Phosphate Decline

Beyond containers, vehicles and grain, Aqaba recorded mixed performance across several other cargo segments.

Handling of petroleum products, gas and mineral oils increased 19% to approximately 3.78 million tons during the first nine months of 2026, compared with around 3.1 million tons during the corresponding period last year.

The increase occurred alongside expanding transit cargo movements, highlighting the importance of Aqaba’s port facilities in supporting energy supply flows and regional distribution activities.

However, livestock imports declined significantly. The number of imported animals fell 39% to approximately 543,000 head, compared with around 890,000 during the first nine months of 2025.

According to the reported figures, the decline was partly attributable to livestock carriers shifting their operations to Syrian ports instead of Aqaba.

Phosphate exports also decreased, falling 18.2% to approximately 4 million tons, compared with around 4.9 million tons during the corresponding period last year.

The decline came amid challenges affecting maritime trade, including higher shipping, transportation and insurance costs. These pressures have increased overall export expenses and affected competitiveness in international markets.

In contrast, bulk potash exports increased 5.7% to approximately 1.9 million tons, compared with 1.8 million tons in the corresponding period of 2025.

The figures demonstrate differing performance across Aqaba’s commodity segments despite the overall increase in cargo handling.

Aqaba Ports Cargo Handling Growth Highlights Infrastructure Requirements

Al-Dalabih emphasized that the continued expansion of cargo, container and vehicle traffic reinforces Aqaba’s position as a regional logistics and commercial gateway.

The growth in Iraq-bound transit cargo and vehicle movements toward Saudi Arabia and other Arabian Gulf countries has increased the importance of maintaining efficient connections between port facilities and inland transportation networks.

He called for continued development of port infrastructure, expansion of handling and storage capacity, and improvements to supporting logistics services.

Particular attention should be given to strengthening coordination between ports and land border crossings, ensuring that growing cargo volumes can move efficiently toward their final destinations.

Al-Dalabih also highlighted the need to improve customs and operational procedures, enhance transportation efficiency and expand storage facilities to support increasing trade volumes.

According to the Jordan Shipping Association, these measures are essential to strengthening Aqaba’s competitiveness as a regional transportation and logistics hub.

The association stressed that improving integration between port operations, border crossings and supporting logistics infrastructure will help maintain supply chain continuity amid regional and international developments.

With container throughput approaching 787,000 TEU, vehicle traffic rising sharply and Iraq-bound transit shipments recording exceptional growth, Aqaba’s performance during the first nine months of 2026 reflects the increasing importance of its ports in regional trade.

Source: Al Ghad

Shipping Arabia, October 23, 2026 – Aqaba ports cargo throughput increased by 12% during the first nine months of 2026, reaching approximately 19.68 million tons, according to a report issued by Aqaba Development Corporation (ADC). The growth was accompanied by higher container volumes and vessel arrivals, although performance varied significantly across cargo segments and port facilities.

The report, prepared by ADC’s Transport and Logistics Directorate, showed that container throughput increased by 6.58% to 786,950 TEUs. Meanwhile, vessel arrivals rose 7% to 2,060 ships, compared with 1,932 during the corresponding period of 2025.

The figures also revealed contrasting trends across the port system. Aqaba New Port and the oil terminal recorded substantial cargo growth, while phosphate shipments, liquefied natural gas (LNG) volumes, and cruise ship arrivals declined.

Aqaba New Port Records 64% Cargo Growth

Aqaba New Port recorded a 64% increase in total cargo handling during the first nine months of 2026. Throughput reached 5,848,640 tons, compared with 3,574,052 tons during the same period in 2025.

Grain handling was a major contributor to this growth, increasing 45% to 3,624,452 tons from 2,498,051 tons a year earlier. Coal volumes also increased significantly, rising 60% to 518,911 tons, compared with 324,125 tons.

The port handled 810,402 tons of bulk sugar during the reporting period, compared with no recorded volumes during the corresponding period of 2025.

Other general cargo handled at Aqaba New Port increased 20% to 894,875 tons, up from 746,476 tons.

The report also recorded a 38% increase in the category identified as stone containers, from 68,314 to 94,530. In contrast, livestock numbers declined 38%, falling from 873,442 to 543,593.

Aqaba Container Terminal Throughput Reaches 786,950 TEUs

Container handling at Aqaba Container Terminal increased by 6.58% during the first nine months of 2026. Total throughput reached 786,950 TEUs, compared with 738,348 TEUs during the corresponding period of 2025.

The report showed a 12% increase in imported containers, including transit containers. Volumes reached 415,382 container units, compared with 371,437 during the first nine months of 2025.

However, imported containers excluding transit traffic declined by 14%. Volumes fell to 299,620 container units, compared with 347,844 during the same period last year.

These figures highlight the difference between overall import container growth, including transit movements, and the decline in imported containers excluding transit traffic.

Oil Terminal Cargo Handling Rises 39% as LNG Volumes Decline

Cargo handling through Aqaba’s oil terminal increased by 39%, reaching 3,433,461 tons during the first nine months of 2026. This compares with 2,465,170 tons during the corresponding period of 2025.

Crude oil accounted for the largest reported volume, increasing 14% to 1,223,957 tons from 1,075,146 tons.

Diesel handling rose 7% to 799,561 tons, compared with 746,540 tons. Meanwhile, gasoline throughput increased 50% to 805,468 tons, up from 535,791 tons during the same period last year.

Other liquid cargo categories also recorded substantial increases. A separately reported gas category rose 176% to 54,151 tons, while potassium hydroxide handling increased 77% to 21,363 tons.

Phenol throughput climbed 309% to 147,036 tons. Chemical cargo handling also increased sharply, rising 943% to approximately 46,511 tons from 4,458 tons.

Mineral oil volumes increased 1,047% to 32,715 tons, compared with 2,853 tons in the corresponding period of 2025.

Vegetable oil handling reached 302,700 tons, compared with no recorded volumes during the previous year. In contrast, magnesium chloride volumes declined from 32,750 tons to zero.

Performance also varied across Aqaba’s gas facilities.

Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) throughput increased 11% to 413,181 tons, compared with 371,664 tons during the first nine months of 2025.

However, liquefied natural gas (LNG) handling declined by 31%, falling to 464,837 tons from 670,931 tons during the corresponding period last year.

Dry Bulk, Liquid Bulk and General Cargo Record Growth

The ADC report showed that dry bulk cargo handling increased 8% during the first nine months of 2026. Total dry bulk throughput reached 11,905,204 tons, compared with 11,043,692 tons during the corresponding period of 2025.

The growth reflected higher grain and coal handling, alongside the addition of bulk sugar volumes. However, several established dry bulk cargo categories recorded declines.

Phosphate handling fell 19.1% to 4,062,887 tons. Sulfur volumes declined 31% to 528,033 tons, while fertilizer throughput decreased 11% to 527,421 tons.

In contrast, grain volumes rose 45% to 3,624,452 tons, while coal throughput increased 60% to 518,911 tons. Bulk sugar handling reached 810,402 tons during the same period.

Liquid bulk cargo recorded stronger overall growth, increasing 16% to 5,428,110 tons, compared with 4,694,287 tons in the first nine months of 2025.

The increase reflected higher volumes of crude oil, diesel, gasoline, LPG, and several chemical products. Nevertheless, ammonia and phosphoric acid handling each declined by 6%, while LNG throughput fell 31%.

Beyond dry and liquid bulk cargo, general cargo handling across the port system increased by 25%. Total volumes reached 2,033,142 tons, compared with 1,626,697 tons during the corresponding period of 2025.

Vessel Arrivals Increase 7% Despite Decline in Container Ship Calls

Total vessel arrivals at Aqaba’s ports increased 7% during the first nine months of 2026, reaching 2,060 ships compared with 1,932 during the same period in 2025.

Liquid bulk vessel arrivals increased 22% to 196 ships, compared with 161 vessels a year earlier.

Dredging vessel arrivals rose 28% to 102 vessels, up from 80. Dry bulk ship calls also increased slightly, rising 1% to 278 vessels from 275 during the corresponding period.

However, container vessel arrivals declined 2%, falling to 438 ships from 446 during the first nine months of 2025. This decrease occurred despite the 6.58% increase in overall container throughput.

Cruise ship arrivals recorded a sharper decline, falling 80% to just two vessels compared with 10 during the corresponding period last year.

Separately, the report recorded 95 arrivals in a category classified as vehicle-designated tourist vessels. No arrivals were recorded in this category during the first nine months of 2025.

Passenger Traffic Rises Despite Declines in Cruise Activity

The ADC report also covered passenger movements and air cargo activity during the reporting period.

Total passenger movements by land and air increased 2% to 422,487 passengers, compared with 413,718 during the corresponding period of 2025.

However, the report indicated a decline in passengers traveling aboard cruise ships, alongside the reduction in cruise vessel arrivals.

Air cargo activity also decreased during the reporting period, although the published figures did not specify the extent of the decline.

Overall, the nine-month results show higher Aqaba ports cargo throughput, container handling, and vessel arrivals. At the same time, the figures demonstrate differing performance across individual facilities and cargo segments, including declines in phosphate exports, LNG handling, and cruise activity.

Source: Al Mamlaka

Shipping Arabia, October 12, 2026 – QTerminals has appointed Adnan El Yacoubi as Managing Director of Hamad Port in Qatar, bringing more than 17 years of international experience in port operations, terminal management and operational leadership across major maritime markets.

The appointment, announced by QTerminals on October 1, places El Yacoubi at the helm of Hamad Port as the company prepares for its next phase of development. His professional background spans senior operational and executive positions across Belgium, Jordan, Malaysia, Morocco and the Netherlands.

Extensive International Experience in Port Operations

El Yacoubi joins QTerminals following his tenure as Chief Operations Officer at Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT) in Jordan, where he served from July 2024 to September 2026.

Before joining ACT, he was Head of Operations at Malaysia’s Port of Tanjung Pelepas from April 2021 to July 2024. In that position, he oversaw terminal operations and managed a workforce of more than 4,000 employees at one of the world’s largest container terminals.

His earlier career included several senior operational and planning positions within APM Terminals. He served as Head of Shared Planning Center, supporting terminal planning activities across international locations, including Africa and Europe.

El Yacoubi also held the position of Head of Terminal Operations Planning at APM Terminals MedPort Tangier in Morocco between 2017 and 2020. His responsibilities included establishing operational planning functions, implementing terminal operating systems and developing planning procedures.

Additionally, he served as Yard Manager at APM Terminals Maasvlakte II in the Netherlands and previously held terminal planning management positions in Morocco and the Netherlands.

These assignments provided him with extensive experience in container terminal operations, operational planning, workforce management and performance improvement across different international markets.

Leading Hamad Port’s Next Phase of Development

As Managing Director, El Yacoubi will lead the overall management and operations of Hamad Port, with a focus on operational performance, service quality and business growth.

In its announcement, QTerminals highlighted his international leadership experience, operational expertise and commitment to continuous improvement as key strengths supporting his appointment.

The company expressed confidence in his ability to guide Hamad Port through its next phase of growth and development, building on his experience managing major port operations and leading operational teams across international maritime markets.

Source: QTerminals

Shipping Arabia, October 12, 2026 – Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT) in Jordan achieved its third consecutive monthly throughput record in September 2026, handling 107,803 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) across 53 vessels. The milestone marked the third straight month in which container volumes exceeded 100,000 TEUs, highlighting sustained operational momentum at Jordan’s principal container terminal.

The September performance followed record throughput levels in July and August, extending ACT’s run of consecutive monthly records. The results reflect the terminal’s continued role in facilitating Jordan’s international trade and supporting cargo movements between the country and regional markets.

Aqaba Container Terminal Throughput Maintains Record Levels

ACT’s September container throughput of 107,803 TEUs represented another milestone in a period of sustained high-volume operations. The terminal surpassed the 100,000-TEU threshold for the third consecutive month, maintaining the momentum established during July and August.

The latest figures also highlight the scale of marine activity at the terminal, with 53 vessels handled during September. ACT maintained its focus on accommodating sustained container volumes while delivering efficient and reliable services to shipping customers and supply chain partners.

The sequence of monthly records reflects the continued importance of Aqaba within regional maritime trade flows. It also demonstrates the terminal’s capacity to handle significant container volumes as it serves Jordan and the wider regional market.

Transit Cargo Reaches 14,712 TEUs as Truck Activity Remains Strong

Transit cargo continued to represent an important component of ACT’s operations during September. The terminal handled 14,712 TEUs of transit shipments, reinforcing its role in facilitating the movement of goods between Jordan and regional markets.

The transit figures highlight the importance of Aqaba’s connectivity to surrounding markets and its function as a maritime gateway for cargo moving beyond Jordan’s domestic market.

Meanwhile, landside operations maintained high activity levels. ACT recorded 45,901 truck visits at its terminal gates during September, reflecting the substantial flow of containers between the port and inland transport networks.

The combination of strong vessel activity, high container throughput and sustained truck movements demonstrated the terminal’s ability to manage cargo volumes across both marine and landside operations.

According to ACT, maintaining efficient and reliable services remains essential to supporting customers and supply chain partners as the terminal handles sustained operational demand.

ACT Reinforces Its Position as a Regional Logistics Gateway

Commenting on the September performance, José Rueda, Chief Executive Officer of Aqaba Container Terminal, said the three consecutive months of record throughput reflected the strength and resilience of Aqaba’s position within regional trade flows.

He emphasized that the terminal’s performance demonstrated its ability to accommodate those trade flows at scale, while maintaining the operational standards required by its customers and partners.

Rueda also highlighted ACT’s focus on strengthening its position as a trusted regional gateway as the logistics landscape continues to evolve.

The terminal aims to combine strong operational performance with improved connectivity, service reliability and consistent customer service standards. These priorities remain central to supporting the needs of shipping lines, logistics providers and other supply chain partners.

According to Rueda, the sustained performance provides a strong foundation for ACT to continue contributing to the growth and competitiveness of Jordan’s logistics sector.

The September results consolidate three consecutive months of record container throughput, reinforcing Aqaba Container Terminal’s role in facilitating regional trade and supporting Jordan’s maritime and logistics activities.

Source: APM Terminals

Shipping Arabia, September 30, 2026 – Aqaba maritime excellence is increasingly being measured through practical improvements in port infrastructure, cargo handling, maritime safety, digitalization and logistics integration as Jordan seeks to strengthen its only maritime gateway and expand its role in regional transit trade.

World Maritime Day highlights how international maritime conventions, standards and policies translate into operational results at sea and across port terminals. This year’s theme, which for the first time extends across 2026 and 2027, is “From Policy to Practice: Powering Maritime Excellence.”

For Aqaba, the theme carries particular significance because the city serves as Jordan’s sole maritime outlet on the Red Sea and a gateway for national trade, while also supporting transit flows to regional markets.

Maritime excellence in Aqaba therefore depends not only on international compliance, but also on effective inspections, tested emergency plans, safe pilotage and towage, efficient vessel and cargo handling, smooth truck movements and stronger connections between ports, logistics zones and transport networks.

Aqaba Maritime Excellence Built on Port and Logistics Capacity

Shadi Ramzi Al-Majali, Chairman of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, said World Maritime Day provides an opportunity to reaffirm Aqaba’s strategic role as Jordan’s maritime gateway and an integrated logistics platform serving national trade and regional transit flows.

He said the 2026-2027 theme reflects the Authority’s approach of converting plans and regulations into tangible outcomes for investors and port users through more efficient services, more flexible procedures and an investment environment capable of supporting sustainable employment.

According to Al-Majali, Aqaba has developed an integrated network of specialized ports, logistics areas and supporting marine services. The port system comprises 12 specialized terminals and 32 operational berths covering a broad range of cargo and maritime activities.

These facilities handle containers, oil and gas, liquefied natural gas, phosphates, fertilizers, sulfur, ammonia, grain, livestock and general cargo. Aqaba also has a dedicated passenger and tourism terminal, while the new port alone contains nine multipurpose berths.

Al-Majali said this range of terminals and berths gives Aqaba advanced operational and logistics capabilities and strengthens its readiness to accommodate different ship types and cargoes. It also supports the requirements of trade, industry and energy while reinforcing Aqaba’s position as a safe and reliable corridor for regional commerce.

He added that coordination among port stakeholders has helped Aqaba maintain the continuity of supply chains despite regional challenges.

Transit Growth Creates New Logistics Opportunity

The expansion of transit traffic represents a strategic opportunity for Aqaba to strengthen its position on the regional maritime and logistics map, Al-Majali said.

However, he stressed that capturing this opportunity requires continued investment in infrastructure, faster procedures and better connections between ports, logistics zones and transport networks.

These measures are intended to reduce time and cost while improving the competitiveness of services offered to investors, shipping lines and other port users.

The wider maritime system also places increasing importance on faster transaction processing, lower waiting times for vessels and cargo, and more efficient data exchange between relevant entities. These factors are central to strengthening confidence among carriers, importers and exporters using Aqaba.

Al-Majali also said environmental protection must remain a fundamental consideration in every development or expansion project in Aqaba. Maritime excellence, he noted, should be judged not only by cargo volumes or vessel numbers, but also by the ability to combine economic growth, operational efficiency, navigational safety and environmental sustainability.

He emphasized the importance of protecting the distinctive marine environment of the Gulf of Aqaba while maintaining the city’s role as a maritime and logistics gateway for Jordan and the wider region.

Port Operations Focus on Berths, Equipment and Cargo Flow

Mahmoud Khalifat, General Manager of Aqaba Ports Management and Operation Company, said World Maritime Day also recognizes the employees working across berths, yards and operations rooms to maintain cargo flows around the clock.

He said the 2026-2027 theme directly reflects the nature of port operations because standards and plans achieve their purpose only when they become daily procedures followed by employees, supervisors and management.

According to Khalifat, the company has strengthened the readiness of berths, equipment and yards. It has also improved cargo-handling arrangements, truck movements, safety procedures and coordination with partner institutions.

These measures have given port operations greater flexibility in managing higher workloads and changes affecting supply chains.

Khalifat said the continued growth of transit traffic represents an important opportunity for Aqaba. He added that continuous training, occupational safety and the modernization of operating methods remain among the company’s leading priorities as Jordanian personnel prepare to manage the next phase of port activity.

Jordan Maritime Commission Strengthens Safety and Regulation

Ahmad Al-Assasleh, Director General of the Jordan Maritime Commission, said World Maritime Day reinforces Jordan’s commitment to international maritime conventions and standards, navigational safety, maritime security and protection of the marine environment.

He said these responsibilities support the reliability of Aqaba’s ports and their role in serving national trade and regional transit movements.

Al-Assasleh said the theme of moving from policy to practice reflects the Commission’s role in converting international commitments into operational measures. These include ship inspections, regulation of navigation, verification of safety requirements and preparedness for maritime emergencies.

The Commission is also continuing to review and update maritime legislation and instructions while developing regulatory, technical and digital services in line with international best practices.

According to Al-Assasleh, these measures aim to improve performance and accelerate transactions without compromising maritime safety and security, particularly as vessel, cargo and transit activity through Aqaba increases.

The Commission’s responsibilities also extend to Jordanian seafarers working aboard vessels around the world. It verifies their qualifications, documentation and certificates, follows their professional conditions and contributes to protecting their rights.

Al-Assasleh said investment in the training and qualification of Jordanian seafarers supports their presence in the international maritime labor market. The Commission is also continuing to strengthen emergency preparedness and reduce pollution risks to protect the Gulf of Aqaba.

Aqaba Container Terminal Advances Operational and Digital Systems

José Rueda, General Manager of Aqaba Container Terminal, said World Maritime Day highlights the terminal’s responsibility at the center of Jordan’s national supply chain and recognizes employees who maintain the flow of containers through the facility.

He said the terminal translates development plans into practical improvements in equipment performance, yard management, vessel services and data exchange with partners.

Development of operational and digital systems, together with improved management of equipment and resources, has strengthened the terminal’s operational flexibility and its ability to respond to changes in vessel schedules and demand volumes.

Rueda said operating teams have also demonstrated their ability to maintain service continuity under exceptional conditions, reflecting the accumulated experience of Jordanian personnel.

Marine Services Strengthen Pilotage, Towage and Emergency Response

Frederik Rutgers, General Manager of Aqaba Port Marine Services Company, said maritime excellence also begins before a vessel reaches the berth.

He highlighted the role of marine pilots, tug crews, engineers and operations-room personnel in applying safety standards from the moment a vessel approaches Jordanian waters until it berths and later departs safely.

Rutgers said the company has strengthened its capabilities in pilotage, towage, mooring, maneuvering and emergency response since its establishment. It has also improved coordination with ports and specialized maritime authorities.

Training and joint exercises have increased the ability of operational teams to respond to fires, pollution incidents and other potential emergencies, helping protect people, infrastructure and the marine environment.

As vessel numbers grow and ship sizes become more diverse, Rutgers said the efficiency of tugs and pilots and the speed of operational response become increasingly important in reducing waiting times without compromising safety.

He added that the company will continue investing in training Jordanian maritime personnel and in technologies that support accurate and efficient marine operations.

Across Aqaba’s maritime sector, the move from policy to practice is being reflected in inspections, training, operational readiness, port equipment, digital systems and daily safety procedures. The continued development of infrastructure, technology and human capital remains central to strengthening Aqaba’s role as a safe, efficient and competitive maritime gateway.

Source: Al Ghad

Shipping Arabia, September 27, 2026 – The Port of Aqaba is taking on a larger role in regional trade as disruptions to traditional shipping routes encourage companies and importers to seek alternative supply chains, with transit container traffic through Jordan recording particularly strong growth toward Iraq, Syria and Lebanon.

Aqaba is increasingly moving beyond its traditional role as Jordan’s maritime gateway for the domestic market. Its location on the Red Sea is allowing cargo arriving by sea to continue overland to other markets in the region, providing an alternative for some shipments that previously reached Iraq through Gulf ports.

Transit activity has been the main beneficiary of this shift. During the first half of 2026, transit traffic through Aqaba increased by 155% compared with the same period in 2025.

More than 60,000 TEUs of transit containers passed through Aqaba Container Terminal during the six-month period, compared with approximately 23,000 TEUs a year earlier.

Iraq-bound containers drive transit growth

The strongest change has emerged in cargo moving through Jordan toward Iraq.

Around 37,000 containers reached Iraq through Jordan in July 2026, compared with approximately 3,600 containers in July 2025. That represented an increase of nearly 900% year on year.

The shift comes as regional conflict and tensions affect established trade routes and encourage cargo owners and companies to consider alternatives that avoid areas facing greater maritime risk, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.

Some cargo that previously entered Iraq through ports in the Gulf is now being redirected to Aqaba before continuing overland into the Iraqi market.

Aqaba also provides a route for cargo moving toward Syria and Lebanon, strengthening its position as a sea-to-land logistics gateway linking maritime services with markets across the Levant.

By the period from the beginning of 2026 through July, transit container traffic through Aqaba had recorded growth of around 180%, indicating that the changing regional trade environment is having a significant impact on cargo flows through the Jordanian port.

Growth extends beyond container traffic

The increase in activity is not limited to containers.

Cargo and dry bulk traffic, including grains as well as food and industrial inputs, rose by more than 40% in July, with volumes reaching approximately 666,000 tonnes.

Activity at Aqaba’s liquefied natural gas facilities also increased. Around 370,000 tonnes were received from the beginning of the year through July, representing growth of nearly 12%.

Meanwhile, volumes handled through oil and gas facilities exceeded 2 million tonnes during the first half of 2026, an increase of more than 40%.

The source attributed the increase to higher discharge volumes of crude oil and petroleum products, alongside stronger maritime movements involving fuel cargoes.

These figures show that changes in regional trade flows are affecting several parts of Aqaba’s port system rather than a single cargo segment.

Aqaba gains a wider regional logistics role

The changes are contributing to a partial redrawing of regional supply chains.

For Iraq in particular, the Aqaba route offers an alternative to cargo movements traditionally dependent on Gulf ports. Vessels can discharge cargo in southern Jordan before shipments continue by road toward the Iraqi market.

Aqaba’s role is therefore increasingly linked not only to its status as Jordan’s sole seaport but also to its ability to connect maritime cargo flows with inland markets across the region.

For shipping companies and importers, continued uncertainty around traditional maritime routes has increased the importance of route diversification and reduced reliance on corridors considered more exposed to disruption.

The rise in transit volumes through Aqaba illustrates how those decisions are translating into actual changes in cargo routing.

As risks and costs affect established trade corridors, ports capable of providing alternative connections between maritime and overland transport are gaining greater significance. In Aqaba’s case, the recent growth in transit and cargo activity is expanding the port’s role from a national maritime gateway toward a more prominent position within regional trade networks.

Source: Al Jazeera

Shipping Arabia, September 23, 2026 – The Jordan Shipping Association and Aqaba Container Terminal are moving toward regular coordination meetings with shipping lines as both sides seek to address operational and commercial challenges and improve container flows through Jordan’s principal maritime gateway.

ACT CEO José Rueda, Chief Commercial Officer Angshuman Mustafi and members of the terminal’s management team met JSA Board members and the association’s Container Committee, including representatives of shipping lines operating through Aqaba.

JSA Vice Chairman Mashhoor Al-Jazi said direct engagement between the association and terminal management is important for addressing operational and commercial issues affecting carriers and improving the overall maritime business environment.

Discussions covered container handling and movement, challenges facing shipping lines, port procedures and measures that could improve cargo flows and service levels for terminal users.

Rueda called for regular meetings between ACT management, JSA and shipping line representatives, allowing operational issues and carrier feedback to be reviewed continuously while providing a platform to jointly address emerging challenges and opportunities.

ACT expressed its readiness to maintain the dialogue and work with the association and its members on practical solutions aimed at improving operational efficiency and container flows.

JSA said continued direct coordination among stakeholders across Aqaba’s maritime sector is essential to resolving operational challenges, improving services to shipping lines and strengthening the competitiveness of Aqaba Container Terminal.

The discussions come as Aqaba handles growing regional cargo activity, increasing the importance of close coordination between the terminal, shipping lines and other stakeholders in maintaining efficient container flows and reinforcing Aqaba’s role as Jordan’s maritime gateway and a regional logistics hub.

Source: Jordan Shipping Association

Shipping Arabia, September 20, 2026 – Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT) has conducted a leadership development session for its management team as part of efforts to strengthen operational performance, continuous improvement and customer service at Jordan’s principal container gateway.

The session builds on an earlier APM Terminals Business System (ABS) Leadership Expectations programme conducted with ACT’s senior leadership and forms part of the terminal’s alignment with APM Terminals’ wider global transformation programme.

According to ACT, the workshop focused on leadership principles designed to develop high-performing teams, strengthen accountability, continuously improve operational processes and place customers at the centre of decision-making.

Participants took part in interactive discussions and practical exercises examining how common leadership standards can improve collaboration, empower employees and contribute to long-term business performance.

The programme also addressed the role of management in developing people, solving operational problems, promoting continuous improvement and creating value for customers and other stakeholders.

ACT said strengthening leadership capabilities is intended to support sustainable growth and operational excellence while reinforcing a management culture focused on performance and customer service.

As Jordan’s primary container terminal and maritime gateway for containerised trade, ACT plays a central role in the country’s import, export and transit supply chains through the Port of Aqaba.

Source: Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT)

Shipping Arabia, September 19, 2026 – Jordan has approved a new package of measures to ease operational pressure across Aqaba’s port and logistics system, including doubling the free period for national exports at Aqaba Container Terminal from seven to 14 days for six months, as the kingdom moves to strengthen supply chain resilience and maintain cargo flows.

The measures were approved by the Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Dr. Jaafar Hassan, and build on earlier steps to expand storage capacity, develop logistics centers and supporting infrastructure, accelerate customs clearance and provide alternative sea-land multimodal corridors.

The government also reduced the charge associated with the destruction of cargo from JOD 450 to JOD 50 per tonne or part thereof for three months, subject to specified conditions and coordination with the Ministry of Finance.

Operational measures already introduced include transferring part of customs clearance activity to Amman Customs, exempting transit truck movements through border crossings from existing trip limits for three months and increasing the permitted number of daily container-truck trips to nine.

Trucks meeting technical and safety requirements are also being permitted to carry two 20-foot containers on a single vehicle, while priority in handling, clearance and gate-out is being given to food cargo, imports destined for the domestic market and Jordanian exports.

The measures are already being reflected in port performance. Average dwell time for transit containers has fallen from around 15 days to 12 days, while inbound local containers are averaging around eight days. Daily container gate-out capacity has increased from approximately 900 to 1,200 containers, helping reduce pressure on the port and accelerate cargo movement.

The latest measures reinforce Aqaba’s role as Jordan’s principal maritime gateway and an increasingly important regional transit corridor, with the government seeking to increase port capacity and logistics flexibility while limiting additional costs caused by shipping delays and regional supply chain disruption.

Source: Alghad

Shipping Arabia, July 18, 2026 – Representatives of Jordan’s maritime, logistics and trade sectors have met Aqaba Container Terminal’s new management to assess the terminal’s readiness for a sharp rise in container traffic, particularly transit volumes driven by changing regional trade patterns.

The joint delegation included Jordan Shipping Association Chairman Zaid Al-Khalaldeh, Secretary-General Capt. Mohammad Al-Dalabih and association representative Munir Muammar, along with Jordan Logistics Association Chairman Nizar Saleh and Amman Chamber of Commerce Vice Chairman Nabil Al-Khatib.

During the visit, the delegation met Aqaba Container Terminal’s newly appointed managing director, José Rueda, and congratulated him on assuming the role.

Discussions focused on recent developments affecting the maritime transport sector and the significant increase in containers arriving through Aqaba, with transit cargo accounting for a growing share of activity as regional conditions redirect additional trade flows through Jordan.

The two sides reviewed the terminal’s capacity to accommodate the accelerated growth and discussed operational plans and measures aimed at maintaining efficient performance as volumes increase.

Attention was given to speeding up container handling, preserving the smooth flow of vessels and cargo, and preventing operational pressure from affecting supply chains and logistics services.

Participants emphasized the importance of sustained coordination between Aqaba Container Terminal and private-sector representatives to identify emerging challenges early and develop practical operational responses.

They also highlighted the need to capitalize on the opportunities created by higher trade and transit volumes while ensuring that terminal capacity, equipment, procedures and landside cargo flows remain aligned with demand.

Closer cooperation between the terminal and maritime, logistics and commercial stakeholders was described as essential to reinforcing Aqaba’s position as a regional logistics hub serving Jordan and neighboring markets.

Source: Jordan Shipping Association

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