Egypt and Saudi Arabia are working together to build a new logistics corridor that helps Gulf countries get goods from international markets during the security problems and tensions caused by the US-Israel war on Iran. This route uses Egypt’s Mediterranean and Red Sea ports and connects them with Saudi Red Sea ports, creating a route that avoids the Strait of Hormuz. For several weeks, cargo such as refrigerated and dry goods has been arriving from Europe, especially from the Port of Trieste, to the Egyptian Port of Damietta. From there, it is moved to the Port of Safaga and then shipped to Gulf countries through Saudi ports like Duba. According to experts this route reduces time and costs, lowers prices, and offers a safer alternative to maritime chokepoints affected by the war. They also expect that Gulf countries may rely more on this corridor in the future, especially if threats to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz continue, but this will require Egypt’s ports to be ready for larger ships. The corridor has been supported by Egypt’s launch of a Ro-Ro transit service, which aims to provide a safe and steady link between Europe and the Gulf. Its importance has increased because the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, using it is risky, and Iran may impose transit fees on ships.
