Regional Updates

A key development has been the expansion of carrier haulage solutions across the region. Major shipping lines are now offering cross-border container movements via strategic gateway ports including Jeddah Islamic Port, Port of Salalah, Sohar Port, Port of Khorfakkan, and Port of Fujairah. These corridors are enabling connectivity into Upper Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, effectively reshaping traditional trade flows.

In parallel, inland logistics capabilities remain resilient. Domestic trucking operations within the UAE and Saudi Arabia continue to operate without disruption, ensuring continuity in cargo distribution and supporting supply chain reliability. This integration between sea, land, and increasingly air freight has become critical in maintaining cargo movement despite external pressures.

From an operational standpoint, import and export patterns are gradually stabilizing. Direct export movements from the UAE have resumed via Fujairah, connecting to the Far East, wider Middle East, and selected global hubs. On the import side, routing via Khorfakkan and Fujairah has become more efficient, while alternative gateways through Jeddah, Salalah, and Sohar remain actively supporting inbound cargo flows into the UAE. Air freight into Dubai has also regained balance, with reduced disruption and more predictable lead times compared to previous weeks.

However, challenges remain. Transport capacity continues to be subject to availability at the time of booking, requiring proactive planning to secure space and mitigate delays. In addition, rising operating costs- driven by geopolitical uncertainty and energy market volatility- are placing pressure on freight rates and overall supply chain profitability. A further impact on pricing is anticipated in the coming weeks, particularly if global fuel markets experience additional shocks.

From a market behavior perspective, the initial phase of disruption saw a temporary slowdown, with booking activity constrained as stakeholders assessed risk exposure. However, this pause has been followed by a clear return of demand. Importers, exporters, and project-driven businesses are now actively resuming shipments, even under higher cost structures and elevated risk conditions. This shift highlights a critical reality: the market does not stop; it recalibrates.

The UAE, and Dubai in particular, continues to demonstrate strong adaptive capacity. The logistics ecosystem- comprising shipping lines, airlines, and land transport providers- is operating as an integrated network to develop alternative routes, rebalance cargo volumes, and sustain trade flows. As constraints emerge, new corridors are established, performance stabilizes, and commercial activity adjusts accordingly.

What we are witnessing is not merely disruption, but transformation. A new logistics model is taking shape; one that is more flexible, multi-modal, and resilient by design. As businesses align with these changes, supply chains across the region are evolving into a more dynamic and responsive system.

In this environment, adaptability is no longer optional; it is the defining factor for continuity and growth.

Fahnaz Moradi

Managing Director

LOGPERTS LLC FZ

[email protected]