FW Desk News
FreightWatch.News
Tuesday, October 13, 2026
Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd are relaunching their Far East-Middle East Loop this weekend following an eight-month suspension. The service, marketed as FM1 by Maersk and AGX by Hapag-Lloyd, will inject fresh capacity into the Gulf region. A significant operational change replaces the Jebel Ali call with Khor Fakkan, positioning the service outside the Hormuz Straits amid regional conflict concerns. The 8,400 teu Maersk Athabasca departs Qingdao on October 17 to inaugurate the revived route. The carrier noted that existing booking restrictions and cargo acceptance guidelines remain in effect. Maersk confirmed its landside solutions will complement the service to serve the Upper Gulf. The port switch reflects broader market trends, with volumes to Dubai and Abu Dhabi declining significantly since the service suspension.
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