King Abdullah Port (KAP), owned and developed by Ports Development Company, and Maersk Line, claimed to be the world's largest container shipping company, celebrated recently their partnership. The occasion marked the commencement of operations by Maersk Line for receiving its vessels and containers.

The celebration was held to mark one of Maersk Line’s largest vessels, 398-meter long, in the presence of a number of officials from the Saudi Coastal Guards, Saudi Customs, Economic Cities Authorities, Abdullah bin Mohamed Hameedaddin MD at Ports Development Company (PDC), Mark Gijsbrechts, chief executive WCA Region at Maersk Line, Ziad Kanaan, board member at National Container Terminal Company, as well as several senior officials from PDC and clients of Maersk Line in Saudi Arabia.

Marking the celebration of the partnership, the participants also boarded the vessel on its arrival. Hameedaddin welcomed the crew on board and presented the captain with a souvenir and token of appreciation.

Hameedaddin said: “It is our utmost pleasure to host the world’s largest container shipping line at King Abdallah Port. We present the most innovative facilities that go in line with our promise to deliver the best in class services for facilitating trade.”

He said: “We extend our appreciation to the Saudi Coastal Guard management and General Customs Authority for their outstanding efforts in servicing Saudi ports. Also praiseworthy is the role of the Economic Cities Authority and its exceptional support in various developmental works at KAP.”

Mark Gijsbrechts, chief executive WCA Region at Maersk Line, said: “The KAP enjoys the strategic geographical location. Its most modern infrastructure facilitates hosting of Maersk Line’s huge vessels.”

PDC says it aims to position KAP as a unique example of world-class excellence for providing valuable benefits for long-term users from both the public and private sectors.