SALALAH: Salalah Port has successfully completed its ambitious expansion plan, increasing its container handling capacity from 5 million to 6 million TEU annually. This milestone was achieved with the arrival of four new large cranes, marking the final phase of the $300 million expansion project.
Scott Salman, Executive Director of Operations at Salalah Port, emphasised that the new cranes will significantly reduce ship turnaround times and enhance the port's ability to handle the world's largest vessels. By completing this expansion, Salalah Port aims to bolster global trade connectivity, improve infrastructure, and elevate maritime service efficiency through strategic partnerships. The "Megamax" ready terminal continues to attract major maritime industry players, solidifying its status as a key hub for the largest container ships.
Salman highlighted that the initial four cranes are currently undergoing tests to ensure operational readiness and are expected to boost productivity starting in August. Two additional cranes are being tested for readiness, while four smaller cranes have been decommissioned. By the end of the year, the total number of cranes at the port will increase from 21 to 27.
The new electric cranes are among the largest and most efficient globally, capable of handling ships with a depth of 26 containers. They boast a lifting height of 58 metres above the rail and a total height of 77 meters, with a maximum lifting capacity of 105 tons. This makes them well-suited to serve the largest container ships in operation. Supporting equipment for the expansion includes 12 hybrid rubber-tired gantry cranes, two assembly cranes, six empty container handlers, and 30 terminal trucks and trailers.
Significant infrastructure upgrades have also been made to modernise the port's electrical network, including a new high-capacity power substation and enhanced high-voltage feeder lines. These upgrades will ensure the port can meet future demand as it transitions to electric-powered equipment.
Salman noted that Oman is leveraging its abundant renewable energy resources to adopt ambitious plans for hydrogen and renewable energy. The port is investing in initiatives to achieve zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Additional enhancements at the port include yard expansions and new roadworks. Upgrades to the current four berths to support the new cranes have been completed, with two additional berths under construction. The increased capacity will enable the port to meet the requirements of the "Gemini" alliance, set to commence operations in the first quarter of 2025.
Salalah Port has consistently demonstrated strong operational performance and expanded its logistical services to meet the evolving needs of local and global markets. Its strategic position on international trade routes and its ability to adapt to global changes underscore its pivotal role in the container and supply chain sectors.
The port has maintained its outstanding performance record, as evidenced by its ranking as the second most efficient container port in the world for the third consecutive year, according to the 2023 Container Ports Performance Index published by the World Bank and Global Market Intelligence.
Since beginning commercial operations in 1998, Salalah Port has become a crucial gateway for Oman in international maritime trade and a global center for container transshipment. Designed for sustainability and future growth, the port benefits from its strategic location near major international shipping routes, connecting the East with the West. This positioning has made it one of the world's top transshipment ports, offering reduced transit times and comprehensive facilities for container ships, including second and third-generation vessels.
Salalah Port is directly linked to over 50 ports worldwide and facilitates short trips and container transshipment to markets in East Africa, India, and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. Direct shipping lines connect Salalah Port to major ports such as New York, Shanghai, Mombasa, Singapore, Jeddah, and Karachi, with transit times ranging from 3 to 14 days. The port provides integrated logistical services in collaboration with Salalah Airport.
Handling over 2,500 ships annually, the port's services include loading and unloading, container maintenance and repair, towing, fueling, and storage. Its advanced logistical and operational capabilities ensure it meets diverse needs efficiently. — ONA
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