AD Ports Group has officially launched new cruise and ferry terminal services at Sharm El Sheikh, Hurghada, and Safaga, all located on Egypt's Red Sea coast. This operational expansion also includes the introduction of ferry services connecting Safaga, Egypt, with NEOM in Saudi Arabia. The primary purpose of this new ferry link is to support the transportation of Hajj workers between the two nations.
This development stems from a 15-year concession agreement that AD Ports Group secured in 2024. The agreement grants the company the rights to manage and operate these crucial maritime facilities, significantly enhancing its presence in the Red Sea region.
For freight forwarders and logistics professionals, while the direct impact on containerized cargo is limited, the enhanced ferry infrastructure could indirectly improve overall port efficiency and connectivity in the region. Increased maritime traffic and improved passenger handling capabilities might lead to better resource allocation and potentially faster turnaround times for other vessel types. The new Safaga-NEOM ferry route specifically addresses a niche but important logistical need for worker transport, which could free up other modes of transport for cargo.
