The Red Sea, a vital maritime link between the East and the West, is bordered by ports that are strategic waypoints and pivotal economic gateways. These ports continue to play a critical role in global trade, handling vast container volumes.
Here, we explore the top 5 ports along the Red Sea, highlighting their capacities, strategic importance, and contributions to their respective countries’ economies and the broader regional logistics landscape.
1. Jeddah Islamic Port
Saudi Arabia’s primary maritime gateway, Jeddah Islamic Port, is a pivotal hub, handling 56% of its maritime trade and 67% of its imported food.
Its strategic location along key shipping lanes and a capacity of 7.5 million TEUs underscores the nation’s commercial vitality.
It supports a wide array of cargo, including general, livestock, and container shipments.
2. Port of Sudan
Situated on Sudan’s Red Sea coast, Port Sudan is the country’s principal port.
Its well-organised sectors facilitate a diverse range of cargoes.
It is a crucial point for the nation’s imports and exports, dealing with about 431,000 TEUs annually, highlighting its role in Sudan’s economic framework.
3. Port of Djibouti
Djibouti Port is critical for East African trade, especially for landlocked Ethiopia.
Its strategic position at the Red Sea’s entrance and capacity for handling 293,000 TEUs annually make it an essential hub for transhipment and international trade, reflecting Djibouti’s growing importance in regional maritime logistics.
4. Port of Massawa
With a rich maritime history, Eritrea’s Port of Massawa is undergoing rebuilding and expansion efforts to regain its status as a key maritime hub.
Though specific TEU figures are not provided, its operational significance is notable, serving as a crucial point for various exports and imports, underpinning its historical and economic importance.
5. Yanbu Commercial Port
Located strategically on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast, Yanbu Commercial Port is a vital conduit for cargo, positioned between major industrial and commercial ports.
While specific TEU data isn’t available, its substantial cargo throughput underscores its role in supporting the region’s logistical and commercial activities.