Al Aqabah, Jordan
Jordan’s only seaport, Al Aqabah is a vital Red Sea gateway linking the country to global trade routes.
Port Overview
Al Aqabah, located at Jordan’s southern tip on the Red Sea, is the country’s only seaport and a vital gateway for regional trade. The port ranks as the most efficient in the Levant and holds the 35th position among global container ports. Strategically, it connects Jordan, Iraq, Syria, the West Bank, and Saudi Arabia to international markets, serving over 45 million consumers. Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT) has an annual capacity of approximately 1.3 million TEUs, making it the second-busiest container facility on the Red Sea.
Facilities & Infrastructure
Al Aqabah Port features specialized terminals for containers, general cargo, bulk cargo, and liquid bulk, including dedicated phosphate and potash terminals. Key cargo facilities include extensive closed and open storage, grain and rice silos, and refrigerated storage. Equipment includes mobile harbor cranes (up to 100 tons), numerous mobile cranes, forklifts, towing tractors, trailers, and tug masters. The port does not currently operate AGVs but is equipped with advanced loading and unloading systems for efficient cargo handling.
Container Terminals
Aqaba Container Terminal has three berths with a total quay length of 1,000 meters and an annual capacity of 1.5 million TEUs. The terminal features modern equipment, including ship-to-shore gantry cranes and rubber-tyred gantry cranes, supporting a moderate level of automation. Major operators are Aqaba Development Corporation and APM Terminals, operating under a long-term joint venture agreement.
Port Services
- Container handling: Aqaba Container Terminal provides full container handling services, including loading, unloading, and storage.
- Cargo operations: The port manages general cargo, bulk cargo, ro-ro, grain, livestock, and specialized cargo through multiple terminals and berths.
- Ship services: Marine services include pilotage, tug assistance, mooring, bunkering, water supply, and firefighting support.
- Warehousing: Extensive warehousing and storage facilities are available, including bonded and distribution centers for various cargo types.
- Customs: On-site customs clearance and inspection services streamline import, export, and transit procedures.
Global Connectivity
Al Aqabah, Jordan, is strategically connected to major shipping routes, serving as a key gateway for trade between Europe, Asia, and Africa. The port connects to global markets through shipping lines like Maersk and COSCO. It is linked to neighboring countries via modern road networks and serves as a vital hub for regional trade, including Iraq and other Middle Eastern nations.
Port Statistics
Al Aqabah, Jordan Port Statistics:
- TEU Throughput: Achieved a monthly record of over 94,000 TEUs in September 2025.
- World Ranking: Not specified, but it is a key gateway for the Levant region.
- Number of Berths: Not detailed, but the port is expanding its infrastructure.
- Area: Not specified.
- Shipping Lines: Serves as a major hub for regional trade, with significant shipping activity.
