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Dear Customer,
We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East and would like to provide you with an update on what it means for your shipments and our services across the region. As conditions develop, we are taking proactive measures to protect our people, safety, safeguard cargo integrity and maintain the stability of our network.
Please note that the following information is subject to change due to the highly volatile situation in the region.
Ocean Update
We are taking operational measure to ensure the safety of our personnel, safeguard your cargo and maintain service stability across affected trade in the Middle East. Following our latest risk assessment and operational review, the following decisions are being implemented:
- We have suspended reefer, dangerous / special cargo acceptance in and out of UAE, Oman, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan and Saudi Arabia until further notice. Exceptions will be made for critical foodstuff, medicine and other essential goods.
- We have suspended all new bookings between the India Subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka) and the Upper Gulf markets of UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia (Dammam and Jubail only). This suspension does not apply to other trade corridors.
- We are currently not accepting dangerous cargo to and from Israel until further notice. All other acceptance to/from Israel remains open.
Terminal update
- All terminals in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Iraq are fully operational.
- In Kuwait, the port of Shuwaik is fully operational, and at the port of Shuaiba, operations have partially resumed.
- The port of Bahrain has suspended operations.
- In Oman, Sohar is fully operational.
Air Update
As the situation continues to evolve, several countries like the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and Iran have announced the temporary suspension of their air spaces. Additionally, as a precautionary measure, airlines have also cancelled or re-routed their flights through the region. The reduced flight options and lastminute carrier schedule changes may result in delays or extended transit times.
There may be rate volatility, as there will be upward pressure on air freight rates due to capacity constraints. Airlines are also introducing or reviewing the possibility of introducing war risk surcharges on shipments routed through or near the impacted regions. There may also be added costs linked to jet fuel which in turn can push up costs.
Impact on sea‑ports and ocean operations may also contribute to extended lead times, particularly for Sea‑Air volumes connecting through the affected hubs. Furthermore, ground movement at the airports and cargo terminals, such as cargo handovers, acceptance, and processing, may be affected where local restrictions or staff shortages occur.
Landside update
Landside services like trucking, rail, and warehousing remain operational across the region. Customers should expect possible border congestion, customs delays, and variable transit times. Alternative routes and stricter security may cause schedule changes and cost shifts. The situation is being monitored for quick response and efficient management.
Existing bookings and cargo in transit
Confirmed bookings accepted prior to this advisory will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis in light of the current operational constraints. Cargo already in transit remains under active operational management. Our teams will continue to monitor movements closely and contact customers directly should any adjustments or further actions be required.
Looking for more information?
We will continue to keep you updated on the situation, via our Red Sea / Gulf of Aden / Hormuz Strait situation page.
Should you have further questions please do not hesitate to reach out to your local Maersk representative. Our teams are on hand to support with your planning, should you need any assistance.
Sincerely,
A.P. Moller Maersk
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