Alexandria, Egypt
Alexandria, Egypt: Ancient Mediterranean hub of trade, culture, and learning founded by Alexander the Great.
Port Overview
Alexandria is located on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast, about 183 km northwest of Cairo, and is the country’s principal seaport. As Egypt’s second-largest city, it covers approximately 2,800 km² and ranks just behind Cairo in population and economic significance. Its strategic position at the western edge of the Nile Delta makes it vital for maritime trade, handling over half of Egypt’s imports and exports. Alexandria’s annual container throughput is around 1.5 million TEU, underscoring its role as a key gateway for international shipping and commerce.
Facilities & Infrastructure
Alexandria Port features key terminals including the Western Port (main commercial hub), Dekheila Port (container and bulk cargo), and Abu Qir (bulk cargo). Major cargo facilities handle containers, general cargo, bulk, Ro-Ro, and oil products. The port is equipped with modern container terminals, including Pier 55, and advanced equipment such as ship-to-shore cranes and yard cranes. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are being introduced to enhance container handling efficiency.
Container Terminals
Alexandria Port in Egypt features multiple container terminals with a total capacity of handling millions of tons annually. The port has several berths, though specific numbers are not detailed. Automation levels are not extensively reported, but the port is undergoing development to enhance operational capabilities. Major operators include local entities under the Alexandria Port Authority, which manages the port's operations and infrastructure.
Port Services
- Container handling: Modern terminals with post-panamax cranes, reefer points, and out-of-gauge cargo capabilities.
- Cargo operations: Bulk, general, and specialized cargo handling, including dangerous goods (except IMO 1 & 7).
- Ship services: Berthing, pilotage, bunkering, ship inspection, and navigational aids.
- Warehousing: Extensive storage facilities, logistics zones, and container freight stations (CFS).
- Customs: One-window customs clearance, streamlined procedures, and on-site coordination with authorities.
Global Connectivity
Alexandria, Egypt’s principal port, serves as a major gateway connecting North Africa to Europe, the Mediterranean, and the Middle East. It handles about 60% of Egypt’s foreign trade and is linked to key ports such as Dekheila and Damietta. The port is integrated with rail, road, and canal networks, facilitating access to Cairo, the Nile Valley, and inland regions. Major shipping routes connect Alexandria to Europe, Asia, and global markets.
Port Statistics
Alexandria Port, Egypt handled approximately 2.3 million TEU in 2024 and ranks 90th globally on the Lloyd’s List of top container ports. The port features 67 berths and covers an area of about 1,650,000 m². Major global shipping lines operate at Alexandria, including Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, and COSCO. The port continues to expand its capacity and infrastructure to support growing trade volumes.
