DR. MONA SOBHI NOUR EL-DIN ON SMART TRANSFORMATION AND THE FUTURE OF GREEN LOGISTICS

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Following the rise of three Saudi ports into the ranks of the world’s largest container terminals, Al’am El Mawani (Ports’ World) sat down with Dr. Mona Sobhi Nour El-Din, Professor of Economic Geography and Vice Dean for Graduate Studies at Al-Azhar University, to explore the significance of this global achievement.

In this interview, Dr. Nour El-Din unpacks what Saudi Arabia’s port success signals for regional competitiveness, and how digitalization and sustainability are reshaping the future of maritime Logistics worldwide.

How do you assess the recent rise of Saudi ports in global rankings?

Achieving these rankings is not just an administrative feat; it represents a fundamental shift in the geoeconomic and strategic map of the region. Jeddah Islamic Port ranks 32nd, King Abdullah Port 70th, and King Abdulaziz Port 82nd globally. Their locations at key maritime crossroads control trade routes handling around %13 of global commerce. Rising to 15th globally in container handling aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goal of becoming the world’s largest logistics hub.

How can Egypt and Saudi Arabia collaborate for regional Logistics integration?

Cooperation can be strengthened through the King Salman Bridge, joint tourism initiatives, investment exchange, and knowledge transfer. Both countries are emerging as regional logistics platforms, and this collaboration enhances trade flows, transit efficiency, and overall regional integration.

Could such integration boost transit trade between the two countries?

Definitely. Saudi Arabia’s extensive road and rail networks complement Egypt’s strategic position in Africa. Coordinating these networks can streamline trade flows, benefiting not only the two nations but the wider Arab and African regions.

How can Egyptian ports join the “smart and green” ports movement?

Investment in renewable Energy — wind, solar, green hydrogen, tidalenergy — is essential, especially for open-sea container terminals. Full electrification, greener shippingpractices, and environmental monitoring aligned with IMOstandards are key. Digitalization, AI, and automation in cargo handling, documentation, and container tracking enable faster, safer, and more efficient operations. Green logistics policies—optimizing routes,reducing energy consumption, recycling waste, and integrating renewable energy—also help reduce carbon footprints.

What are the main challenges facing maritime transport and ports in 2026?

Several challenges converge:

  • Pandemic aftermath: COVID19-continues to impact shipping operations.
  • Geopolitical tensions: Conflicts such as Russia-Ukraine, Gaza, and Bab el-Mandeb affect routes, fuel costs, and insurance, and alter canal traffic.
  • Environmental requirements: Oil spills and IMO mandates to cut emissions %20 by 2030 demand sustainable operations.
  • Trade disputes: Tariffs, trade wars, and increased customs fees necessitate smart, strategic port planning.

How do AI, digitalization, and automation support the maritime sector?

These technologies improve Logistics efficiency, innovation, and crisis forecasting. Ports must evolve from “smart” to “super-smart” models, as seen in Rotterdam’s digital twin systems, Singapore’s fully automated container hub, and Jebel Ali’s integrated operations. Automation, AIdriven management, and autonomous vehicles optimize port governance end-to-end.

 How are Saudi Arabia and Egypt applying AI strategies to maritime logistics?

Saudi Arabia’s SDAIA and Egypt’s National AI Strategy 2030 guide AI adoption in maritime operations, including port management, customs enforcement, workforce training, blockchain, digital twins, crisis prediction, and corridor optimization. Both countries focus on enhancing regional integration and modernizing their ports.

Should maritime education evolve with these technological changes?

Yes. Curricula must integrate AI, digital systems, international trade, and sustainability. Graduates need hands-on training in smart port management, container logistics, passenger shipping, and yacht tourism. Research on Egyptian ports shows the importance of competitive positioning, regional economic clusters, and dry ports to improve efficiency and attract investment.

Dr. Nour El-Din emphasizes that Saudi and Egyptian ports are not only modernizing operations but are setting the stage for a regional Logistics revolution. By combining digitalization, AI, automation, and green practices, these ports are poised to redefine competitiveness, enhance sustainability, and secure a leading role in global trade.

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