The Arab Bridge Shipping Company held its 88th general assembly meeting, attended by Egyptian Transport Minister Kamal El-Wazir, Jordanian Transport and Labor Minister Nidal Qatam, and Iraqi Transport Minister's representative Hazem El-Hafafi. The meeting reviewed the company's performance over the first nine months of 2026, which showed continued growth and record-high financial and operational indicators. The company's profits exceeded $40 million until September 30, 2026.

The company's managing director, Adnan Al-Abbadla, highlighted that the financial results reflect the company's growth and ability to update its fleet, enter new markets, and diversify its income sources. The Arab Bridge fleet will be strengthened with the addition of new vessels, including the "Al-Gisr" passenger and cargo ship, which can carry 85 trucks and 254 passengers, and the "Ashur" fast boat, which can accommodate 312 passengers.

The company's expansion plans include the introduction of new shipping lines, such as the Safaga-Duba line, which will enhance passenger and cargo transport between Egypt and Saudi Arabia. This line is expected to boost trade and economic cooperation between the two countries. The company's growth strategy involves transitioning from a primarily maritime transport model to a more comprehensive and integrated business model.

Minister Kamal El-Wazir emphasized that the Arab Bridge's growth aligns with Egypt's vision to develop its maritime transport sector and become a regional hub for transport, logistics, and transit trade. The Egyptian government is working to upgrade its ports, connect them to road and rail networks, and establish dry ports as part of integrated international logistics corridors.

The Arab Bridge's expansion plans also involve investing in infrastructure and maritime services projects, such as the development and operation of a boat maintenance and repair facility in Sharm El-Sheikh, in partnership with the Red Sea Ports Authority. Another project involves managing and developing a passenger terminal in Aqaba port, in partnership with the Aqaba Development Company.

Jordanian Minister Nidal Qatam highlighted that the Arab Bridge's achievements demonstrate the potential for sustainable growth and development in the Arab region. He emphasized the importance of integrating transport services with infrastructure development and maritime industries. The company's growth is seen as a success story for Arab cooperation and integration.

The Arab Bridge Shipping Company's growth and expansion plans are expected to enhance its role in connecting the Arab East with North Africa and leveraging trade opportunities in the region. The company's strategy is built on the support of its founding countries, the efficiency of its employees and maritime cadres, and its experience in managing and operating regional maritime transport.

Key points

  • The Arab Bridge Shipping Company's profits exceeded $40 million in the first nine months of 2026.
  • The company plans to introduce new shipping lines, including the Safaga-Duba line.
  • Egypt aims to become a regional hub for transport, logistics, and transit trade.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.