Saudi, Hamburg port authorities partner up on innovations in port sector

Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani), Hamburg Port Authority (HPA), and HPC Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to propel innovations in port operations, port development, and workforce capacity building.

The parties intend to drive ‘meaningful transformation’ in global port management by harnessing their combined strengths.

The MOU, inked at a port conference in Hamburg, is said to signal a shared vision for tackling key challenges in modern port operations, including leveraging digitalization, optimizing waterborne transport infrastructure, and enhancing overall port efficiency.

Each partner brings distinct capabilities to the table: Mawani’s expertise in large-scale port management, HPA’s focus on port strategy and digitalization, and HPC’s deep knowledge of global project and innovation management in the maritime sector. Together, they will unlock synergies that aim to build smarter, greener and more resilient ports.

The partnership recognizes the vast potential for cooperation, particularly in optimizing port infrastructure and technology solutions. Through the MOU, the parties have expressed their intent to promote best practices by regularly exchanging knowledge, expertise and best practice solutions. The focus will be on developing approaches to port management, building capacity, and driving technological advancements within the maritime sector.

“As global trade evolves, ports must adapt with intelligent, data-driven systems. This partnership strengthens our position at the forefront of digital transformation, allowing us both to enhance efficiency and governance in port management as well as to achieve new levels of sustainability along critical trade routes like the East-West corridor,” Lennart Kinau, HPA Board Member, emphasized.

“HPC has successfully delivered transformative port projects in over 130 countries for nearly half a century. This MOU builds on that legacy by focusing on the next generation of port solutions—automated systems, and smart digital platforms that redefine how ports operate and minimize environmental impact. We are excited to collaborate with MAWANI and HPA to push the boundaries of what modern and sustainable ports can achieve,” Nils Kemme, CEO of HPC, said.

Moving forward, the parties will collaborate to develop actionable strategies. The focus will be on creating an agile, resilient port network that embraces technological innovations such as port AI, automated logistics, and advanced data-driven solutions. Regular knowledge exchanges and collaborative initiatives will ensure this partnership continuously adapts to the latest advancements in global maritime logistics.

Mawani views this collaboration as key to building connected and sustainable infrastructure across key global trade routes. Saudi Arabia’s ports are vital to international trade, particularly across Asia and Europe, and the MOU allows the Kingdom to leverage cutting-edge technologies to enhance efficiency and connectivity.

Last year, Mawani also entered into a partnership deal with the Dutch Port of Rotterdam—the largest seaport in Europe—to collaborate in the areas of smart ports, human capital development, knowledge transfer and commercial opportunities.

What is more, the Saudi Ports Authority, together with Danish shipping giant Maersk, started work on a multipurpose, environmentally friendly logistics park in Jeddah Islamic Port.

The port authority also joined forces with Swiss MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company on a $40 million logistics park in Dammam’s King Abdulaziz Port in Saudi Arabia.