Regional Updates

Cargo is increasingly routed through a network of ports including Khor Fakkan and Fujairah in the UAE, Sohar and Salalah in Oman, and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia. From these gateways, shipments move inland to final destinations across the GCC. This creates a multi-leg supply chain where sea and land transport are combined more frequently, rather than relying on a single direct ocean route.

In practice:

Supply chains remain active, but execution is more complex. Transit times can vary, and costs are less predictable due to additional handling, storage, and inland transport. Cargo may also be held at intermediate ports until onward routing is confirmed.

At the same time, several shipping lines are expanding Carrier Haulage solutions across the region. These services move containers directly from gateway ports to final destinations such as Jebel Ali using integrated cross-border trucking. When used properly, this can reduce coordination gaps, control costs, and improve transit reliability.

Businesses need to adjust:

Companies should align the full routing plan before cargo moves from origin. This includes confirming discharge port, transit routing, and inland delivery in advance. Where available, carrier haulage needs to be prioritized as part of the routing strategy. It offers a more controlled and often more cost-effective solution compared to fragmented handling.

From a broader supply chain perspective, flexibility is now essential. Businesses should define alternative gateways, allow buffer time, and stay closely aligned with logistics partners and carriers.

Conclusion

The regional supply chain is adapting, not stopping. Cargo continues to move, but through more layered and flexible routing structures. The UAE and wider GCC are supporting this shift through connected ports and inland corridors. Continued coordination between ports, carriers, and authorities remains key to maintaining stable cargo flow under changing conditions.

Author:

Fahnaz Moradi

Co-owner and Managing Director

Logperts LLC FZ

[email protected]