Under its Smart Ports initiative, the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) has signed three agreements to further its efforts in applying modern technologies.
During a ceremony celebrating the launch of the initiative that aims to automate operations in Saudi ports, the company signed three separate Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with the following organisations:
These agreements will enhance the competitiveness of Saudi ports at regional and international levels in the field of automated handling.
Under the three MoUs, all parties will cooperate in accelerating and implementing 5G technology in both the logistics and operation sectors in order to contribute to the automation of port operations and other automation initiatives.
Furthermore, all organisations will cooperate in providing communications and information technology services as well as infrastructure, cloud computing services development, cybersecurity, application services, and platforms.
MAWANI has said it will work with its partners to activate an innovation, research and development methodology for emerging technologies.
“Today, Saudi ports are entering a crucial stage of transforming into automated Smart Ports by adopting the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution with their advanced applications besides relying on AI technology, IoT and technologies of 5G with the aim of raising the efficiency of the operational performance of Saudi port network and developing the marine transport system to enhance the Kingdom’s presence on the global logistics services map,” said Omar bin Talal Hariri, President of MAWANI.
Olayan Al Wetaid, CEO of STS Group, said: “STC is committed to its role as a leading national company and the largest digital enabler in the region by providing advanced technical solutions to our partners in various sectors, and this agreement comes to transform Saudi ports into Smart Ports operating with 5G technologies, as a part of STS’s strategy.
“This agreement aims at enabling digital transformation in various fields, taking advantage of the Kingdom’s strategic location at the cross point of three continents, promoting investment in international connectivity services and data centres in addition to extracting value from the group’s multiple assets, services and advanced technologies.”
Last month, MAWANI also signed a long-term deal with Bahri to build and operate an integrated logistics park at the Jeddah Islamic Port.
A total area of 95,436 metre-squared has been leased for the construction of this facility.
