By Maria Kalamatas | July 16, 2025
Dubai – July 16. In the face of continued disruptions in the Red Sea, container traffic at Jebel Ali Port has surged to levels not seen in years, straining operations and causing delays across the logistics chain.
“There are more ships waiting to dock than we’ve seen since the height of the pandemic,” said Mahmoud El Nabawy, who supervises vessel operations at the port. “Every available berth is being used, and containers are backing up faster than we can process them.”
Red Sea Risks Prompt Widespread Rerouting
Due to persistent security threats in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, global shipping lines are opting for longer, safer routes — either around the Cape of Good Hope or directly into Gulf ports like Jebel Ali. This shift, driven by insurance concerns and crew safety, has significantly increased the port’s workload.
Exports from Asia destined for Europe and North Africa are now being funneled through Dubai, placing additional stress on limited yard space and terminal equipment.
Port Authority Responds Under Pressure
DP World, which oversees Jebel Ali, has increased manpower and brought in extra handling units to keep goods moving. Despite these efforts, dwell times have risen sharply, with some containers waiting over 36 hours before clearance.
“We’re running operations around the clock,” said a logistics coordinator on site. “But the flow is relentless, and extreme summer temperatures are slowing everything down — from labor to inland haulers.”
Delays Impact Asian Exporters
Export businesses in India, Pakistan, and Southeast Asia are bearing the brunt of the backlog. Perishable cargo, particularly seafood and pharmaceuticals, has been hit hard by missed transshipment connections.
“I had cold chain goods sitting at Jebel Ali that should’ve reached Rotterdam last week,” said Naved Zaman, a Karachi-based freight forwarder. “We’re now facing penalties from clients.”
No Quick Resolution in Sight
Industry watchers expect congestion to persist well into the third quarter, especially if maritime instability continues and seasonal demand increases from European retailers.
“Unless there’s a diplomatic breakthrough or rerouting subsidies ease the pressure,” warned Dubai-based trade advisor Farah al-Kazemi, “Jebel Ali may be forced to cap incoming vessels or prioritize only urgent cargo.”
