DP World has deployed 35 electric terminal tractors (ETTs) at the South Container Terminal (SCT) at Jeddah Islamic Port, increasing the terminal’s tractor fleet by more than 20 percent as part of its ongoing US$800 million investment to modernise port infrastructure and reduce emissions.
The new electric tractors will transport containers between the quayside and the yard, supporting vessel operations while replacing diesel-powered equipment with lower-emission alternatives. According to DP World, the deployment is expected to reduce annual carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from the terminal tractor fleet by around 20 percent compared with current levels, while improving operational efficiency and equipment availability.
Mohammad Alshaikh, CEO of DP World KSA, said the investment is aimed at enhancing reliability, efficiency and capacity for customers while supporting Saudi Arabia’s growing trade ambitions. He added that the expanded fleet strengthens operational resilience and marks another milestone in transforming the South Container Terminal into a lower-carbon, future-ready trade gateway.
Located at one of Saudi Arabia’s busiest container ports, the South Container Terminal plays a key role in handling cargo moving through the Red Sea trade corridor. DP World said the introduction of electric terminal equipment supports faster vessel turnaround times and improved customer service as container volumes continue to grow.
The deployment forms part of DP World’s broader strategy to electrify 100 percent of the terminal’s equipment by 2030, supporting both the company’s decarbonisation objectives and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of developing a globally competitive logistics sector.
The South Container Terminal spans nearly one million square metres and features 2,150 metres of quay length across five container berths, with an operational depth of 18 metres, enabling it to accommodate some of the world’s largest container vessels.
The latest fleet expansion follows the commissioning of three semi-automated quay cranes in March 2026, increasing the terminal’s ship-to-shore crane fleet to 17. Both initiatives form part of DP World’s long-term investment programme to transform the facility into one of the region’s most advanced, efficient and sustainable container terminals.
For more information visit www.dpworld.com
