ports

Middle East Port Congestion Spreads, Carriers Impose New Surcharges

Container lines are expanding congestion surcharges across Middle Eastern ports as capacity constraints persist at alternative hubs. Regional Container Lines announced a $450 per container fee for all cargo entering Khor Fakkan in the UAE, citing vessel waiting times exceeding seven days. The carrier said the levy would help offset operational costs from prolonged berth delays. Jeddah in Saudi Arabia already faces a $500 per box surcharge from MSC. Congestion extends across the region, with Fujairah and Sohar in Oman operating at maximum capacity. Sohar is experiencing the most severe delays, with vessels waiting up to 14 days to dock. As regional cargo patterns shift, operational strain on alternative gateways continues to mount, forcing carriers to pass costs to shippers.