By: Economy Middle east

The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and Qatar Ports Management Company recently signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at boosting maritime and logistics cooperation between the two sides, contributing to the development of the ports sector, raising operational efficiency and supporting regional and international trade flows.

The agreement was signed by Mawani President Eng. Suliman Almazroua and CEO of Qatar Ports Management Company Captain Abdullah Mohammed Al-Khanji, in the presence of Qatari Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Bandar bin Mohammed Al Attiyah.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar to cooperate in eight key areas

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 agreement 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 also includes collaboration on logistics services, exploring the establishment of joint maritime corridors to serve bilateral and regional trade, and assessing the feasibility of shared regional distribution centers.

Smart systems and unified maritime window

In the fields of digital transformation and artificial intelligence, Saudi Arabia and Qatar agreed to deepen cooperation on developing smart systems, data governance and the unified maritime window, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and keeping pace with technological advancements in the maritime sector.

The MoU also 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, conducting joint exercises and developing 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.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar to study local and global investment opportunities

In terms of joint investment, Saudi Arabia and Qatar will study local and global investment opportunities in ports and related logistics services and coordinate with the private sector to support these initiatives.

The agreement 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.