Hapag-Lloyd updates Jeddah transit rules for Upper Gulf cargo

Hapag-Lloyd has announced new requirements for transit shipments moving via Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to Upper Gulf destinations.

Following an update from the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani), transit cargo can move through Jeddah to the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and Iraq.

However, shipments remain subject to customs, terminal, documentation and clearance requirements.

Customers responsible for clearance and onward transport

For containers discharged from 1 August 2026, customers are responsible for arranging customs clearance and onward transportation from Jeddah.

The measure applies from the arrival of Maersk Alette and subsequent vessels.

Customers must complete clearance and arrange onward movement without delay.

Any additional costs caused by delays will be charged to the shipper. These may include storage, terminal handling, customs formalities, relocation and onward transportation costs.

New requirements for Jeddah transit bookings

Hapag-Lloyd has also introduced requirements for future bookings via Jeddah.

The Notify Party must be located in Saudi Arabia. For “To Order” shipments, a second Saudi-based Notify Party is also required.

The Bill of Lading draft must clearly include the relevant transit clause.

In addition, the payer must be based in Saudi Arabia, while the collecting office must be Hapag-Lloyd Saudi Arabia.

Customers will remain responsible for customs clearance and onward transportation.

15-day deadline for onward movement

Hapag-Lloyd will require a Letter of Indemnity (LOI) or written confirmation before accepting future bookings.

The customer must confirm that the shipment will be cleared and moved onward within 15 days of discharge in Jeddah.

Bookings will only be accepted once the required confirmation and documentation have been provided.

Customers must also ensure that their Saudi-based Notify Party can handle the required customs clearance.

Applicable Saudi payments should be completed through ODeX Saudi Arabia. For payments in the UAE or other Upper Gulf markets, customers should continue using the existing payment channel in the respective country.

Delivery Orders will only be released after all applicable payments have been settled.

Containers could be relocated if clearance is delayed

Hapag-Lloyd warned that containers could be moved to an alternative location if cargo remains uncleared or onward transportation is delayed.

Such action may be taken when operationally necessary to prevent congestion in Jeddah.

Any costs associated with the relocation will be charged to the shipper.

Hapag-Lloyd advised customers with affected shipments to make arrangements in advance to avoid delays and additional costs.

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