Innovations in the development of intelligent and sustainable port infrastructure to enhance the global maritime sector’s portfolio

Event Partners

Saudi Red Sea Authority

MWANI Qatar

Lloyds Register

DCMMI

Parsons

EVENT OVERVIEW

The 3rd International Port & Marine Development Conference

will serve as a vital platform to reinforce Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional maritime leader, fostering connections among industry stakeholders, solution providers, and policymakers. It offers extensive opportunities for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration on innovative port solutions, green technologies, and digital transformation, all aimed at accelerating sustainable port development and operational efficiency. Attendees will gain valuable insights into future trends, regulatory updates, and investment strategies, enabling them to contribute to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 goals of economic diversification and industry modernization.

MARKET
DRIVERS

Dual-Operator Efficiency Rollout

The east coast (SGP/PSA) and west coast (RSGT) concession model covers 8 major multipurpose terminals, harmonizing standards and improving nationwide operational reliability.

Capacity Growth Driving Non-Oil GDP

Port cargo capacity has risen at 10%+ YoY since 2020, supporting maritime trade that contributes to the Kingdom’s $1.3 trillion economic diversification agenda.

$800 Million Concession Investment Wave

The 2025 BOT agreements worth SAR 2.2 billion ($800M) across eight ports are accelerating modernization and expanding private sector participation from 30% to 70%.

Vision 2030 Logistics Hub Ambition

Saudi Arabia targets becoming a Top 10 Global Logistics Hub under NTLS, boosting port throughput capacity to support 40+ million TEU across key gateways.

Industrial & Logistics Zone Expansion

Strategic developments such as Jeddah Logistics Park, SPARK, JCPDI & NEOM Oxagon are enabling value-added manufacturing and distribution clusters directly linked to ports.

Modernization Through Automation

New CapEx commitments include ship-to-shore cranes, yard automation & smart gate systems, targeting vessel turnaround time reductions of 20–35%.

Multimodal Network Expansion

Enhanced integration with Riyadh Dry Port, freight rail corridors & bonded logistics zones strengthening hinterland connectivity for petrochemicals, mining & industrial exports.

Global Operator Partnerships & FDI

Leading players such as PSA International, DP World & RSGT are deepening presence in the Kingdom, reinforcing foreign investment inflows and global standards adoption.

Karim Barakat

Chief Executive Officer

Western Coast Port Services
Saudi Arabia

Capt. Turki Al Shehri

Managing Director

National Maritime Academy (NMA)
Saudi Arabia

Dr. Shadi Alghaffari

Vice Dean for Postgraduate Studies and Research

King Abdulaziz University – Faculty of Maritime Studies (NMA)
Saudi Arabia

Dr. Ali O Melibari

Chairman, Civil Engineering Division, Saudi Council of Engineers | Chairman, Board of Transportation Planning and Traffic Safety Division Former Saudi Aramco and Program Director of the PMO

Jeddah Municipality
Saudi Arabia

Conference SPEAKERS

Capt. John Taylor

Director - Waterways

Red Sea Global
Saudi Arabia

Capt. Turki Al Shehri

Managing Director

National Maritime Academy (NMA)
Saudi Arabia

Mohammed R. Majdali

Executive Director-Coastal Tourism Operations

Red Saudi Red Sea Authority
Saudi Arabia

Jabor Ali Al-Sulaiti

Investment & Strategies Manager

MWANI Qatar (Qatar Ports Management Company)
Qatar

EVENT IN NUMBERS

0 +
Sponsors and Exhibitors
0 +
Attendees 
0 %
Decision Makers  
0 +
Case Studies
0 +
Countries
0 +
Regional and International Speakers
0 +
Media Partners

Conference Agenda

Sponsors & Partners

Associate Partner
Industry Partner
Exhibitor
Exhibitor
Exhibitor
Exhibitor
Networking Partner
Official Logistics Partner

Media Partners

Dr. Juan Recio Practice Director, Ports & Marine
AECOM, UAE

“It has been a pleasure to participate in the International Port and Marine Development Conference. The event provided a remarkable opportunity to connect with key stakeholders and professionals across the maritime sector. The discussions were forward-looking and insightful, offering forecasts and perspectives that are essential for shaping the future of ports and marine development. I came away with valuable knowledge and industry updates that I wasn’t previously aware of—reinforcing how important it is to be part of such gatherings. As a maritime training leader, it is vital for me to stay ahead of market trends to ensure we are preparing the right talent for the future. Attending events like this allows me to align our training strategies with evolving industry demands. I extend my sincere thanks to the organizers for creating such a well-curated platform, and I look forward to participating in future editions of the conference.”

Capt. Turki Al Shehri Managing Director
National Maritime Academy (NMA), Saudi Arabia

“Attending this event has been a truly enriching experience. While the discussions were heavily technical—focused on engineering and construction, which are outside our core field of expertise, it was incredibly insightful and valuable. Being surrounded by so many industry experts and thought leaders provided a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the technical side of port and marine development. These perspectives are crucial, even for those of us in design and architecture, as they help us see how different disciplines intersect and support one another. I extend my sincere congratulations to the organizers for creating such a high-level and informative event. It was a pleasure to be part of it and to learn from the wealth of knowledge shared across the two days.”

Luca Baldi Global Key Account Manager
Luca Dini Design & Architecture, Italy

“I attended this conference last year as a delegate and immediately recognized the value it delivers—especially in terms of the quality of participants and the presence of key industry stakeholders. That experience made it clear to us that we needed to return this year as a sponsor. We’re truly honored to be part of this event. The organizers have done an exceptional job in creating a dynamic atmosphere where meaningful connections and valuable exchanges can take place. The networking opportunities and the number of attendees has been remarkable. To anyone considering participating in the next edition—I strongly encourage you to do so. It’s an excellent platform for learning, exposure, and business development.”

Adel Faisal Country Business Developer
Ecocoast Saudi Arabia

"The conference left a remarkable impression. It offered deep insights into Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and how the strategic expansion of ports is set to drive economic growth across the Kingdom. We gained a comprehensive understanding of the infrastructure challenges in the sector, along with the latest innovations and technologies available to address them. This event served as a vital platform for raising awareness, fostering knowledge exchange, and discussing the real-world challenges facing our industry. What made it especially valuable was the opportunity to explore proven solutions being applied at ports not only across the Middle East and Africa, but also in Europe. Learning from these global examples allows us to adapt and implement similar forward-thinking innovations in our own region. Such forums are essential for uniting stakeholders, sharing lessons, and identifying practical pathways to accelerate the evolution of port infrastructure and technology.”

PREVIOUS EVENT HIGHLIGHTS IN PICTURES

PREVIOUS EVENT HIGHLIGHT VIDEOS

Floor Plan

Register Now

Primary Delegate

$25

+ VAT

Vendor Delegate

$2799

+ VAT

Industry Partner

$4000

+ VAT
When?

6 – 7 October 2026

Where?

Jeddah Hilton, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Accommodation

We’ve secured a special discounted rate at the Jeddah Hilton for our event attendees. Availability is limited, so we encourage you to book early to ensure your stay.
Includes:
Buffet breakfast and all applicable taxes and fees:
5% Municipality Fee and 15% VAT BB per room per night
How to Book

Click on the link below to book your accommodation at Jeddah Hilton.

***Should you face any issues with the link, please do contact me.

Additional Information

Early check-in and late check-out are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.
Rooms are non-refundable due to the special group rate; however, name changes are permitted up to 2 days before check-in.

Please Note: Room rates and availability are subject to change based on the hotel’s occupancy. Great Minds Event is not liable for any changes in pricing or room availability