The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and Qatar Ports Management Company signed on Tuesday a memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at boosting maritime and logistics cooperation between the two sides.
The agreement will contribute to the development of the ports sector, raising operational efficiency, and supporting regional and international trade flows.
The MoU was signed by Mawani President Eng. Suliman Almazroua and CEO of Qatar Ports Management Company Captain Abdullah Mohammed Al-Khanji. Qatari Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Bandar bin Mohammed Al Attiyah attended the signing ceremony.
The agreement reflects Saudi Arabia and Qatar’s commitment to building effective partnerships, exchanging expertise, establishing an organized framework for cooperation management, and developing joint investment opportunities in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and Qatar National Vision 2030.
The MoU outlines eight key areas of cooperation, including the exchange of best practices in port management and operations, and the study of opportunities for direct maritime and land connectivity between the ports of both countries to enhance trade flow efficiency.
It includes collaboration in logistics services, exploring the establishment of joint maritime corridors serving bilateral and regional trade, and assessing the feasibility of creating shared regional distribution centers.
In the fields of digital transformation and artificial intelligence, the two sides agreed to deepen cooperation on developing smart systems, data governance, and the unified maritime window, thereby boosting operational efficiency and keeping pace with technological advancements in the maritime sector.
The MoU places strong emphasis on maritime safety and environmental protection, including exchanging expertise in combating marine pollution and emergency response; developing joint maritime emergency plans; establishing an emergency communication line between the two countries; and cooperating to ensure compliance with international conventions, conduct joint exercises, and develop risk monitoring systems.
The cooperation also covers human capital development through joint training programs and field-exchange of expertise, as well as academic and research collaboration in maritime transport and logistics.
In terms of joint investment, both sides will study local and global investment opportunities in ports and related services and coordinate with the private sector to support these initiatives.
The MoU further includes cooperation in cruise tourism through enhanced maritime connectivity and joint promotion of Gulf cruise routes, as well as international and regional representation by coordinating positions in international maritime organizations and supporting joint initiatives, notably “Green Ports” and “Safe Sea Corridors.”
The agreement reflects the commitment of Mawani and Qatar Ports Management Company to advancing the ports sector and boosting its role as a key driver of trade and economic growth, contributing to Gulf integration and enhancing regional competitiveness in maritime and marine services.
