Middle East logistics and trade infrastructure development

Middle Eastern nations are implementing large-scale infrastructure projects to strengthen their roles as global trade and logistics hubs.

In the United Arab Emirates, efforts are focused on expanding a multimodal logistics network that integrates maritime, land, air, and rail operations. Key developments include the establishment of a logistics corridor between Sharjah and Oman, the expansion of railway facilities via Hafeet Rail, and the growth of domestic rail freight through Etihad Rail. These initiatives aim to transition the UAE into an end-to-end logistics platform.

Egypt is actively developing eight integrated international logistics corridors to link Red Sea and Mediterranean seaports with the Suez Canal, dry ports, and various industrial, agricultural, and mining zones. Announced by Minister of Transport Kamel Al-Wazir, these routes—such as Arish–Taba, Sokhna–Alexandria, and Cairo–Aswan–Abu Simbel—utilize railways, highways, and an electric high-speed rail network to connect Egypt to markets in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Levant, and the Gulf.

The maritime development plan includes establishing five new ports to increase the total number of commercial ports to 19 and expanding port areas to 100 million square meters. Infrastructure upgrades involve adding 70 kilometers of new berths and constructing 35 kilometers of breakwaters. This strategy seeks to reduce transport costs and attract investment. Following a 12% increase in cargo tonnage in 2025, Egypt aims to improve its global position from 19th in the UNCTAD Liner Shipping Connectivity Index to the world’s top 15 maritime rankings by 2030.