Port of NEOM, set to become an advanced and sustainable port, has marked a major milestone with the arrival of the first fully automated, remote-controlled ship-to-shore (STS) and electric rubber-tyred gantry (eRTG) cranes in Saudi Arabia — advancing its goal to become a global hub for smart, sustainable trade.

Strategically located on the Red Sea, one of the world’s busiest maritime corridors, Port of NEOM is already serving as a critical gateway on the East–West trade route. The newly arrived state-of-the-art cranes will play a critical role in the port’s automation strategy, unlocking the potential for high-volume, high-efficiency operations. Importantly, their remote-control capability allows for a future-ready workforce model, where operators can manage equipment from secure, ergonomic environments.

Development of Port of NEOM continues at pace ahead of the 2026 opening of Terminal 1, a next-generation container terminal, with recent infrastructure milestones including the completion of a 900-m quay wall and the deepening of the port channel to 18.5 m — enabling the world’s largest vessels transiting the Suez Canal to call at Port of NEOM.

Terminal 1 will also feature horizontal transport automation as part of the broader goal to achieve full automation. Once operational, these technologies will significantly expand the port’s logistics capacity, driving regional industrial growth, opening access to global markets, enhancing supply chain resilience and unlocking business opportunities.