July 30, 2024

Client Advisory: Market Update UAE

The freight market in the United Arab Emirates is currently experiencing challenges - kindly be informed of the following and reach out to your Crane Worldwide representatives should you require any additional support at this time.  

Ocean Freight delays

Major delays at terminal 1 and 2 have been reported at Jebel Ali port, impacting both inbound and outbound shipments. Several vessels are avoiding the port from their regular schedules. MSC, for instance, utilizes Abu Dhabiport for transhipments, resulting in containers being omitted from this process. Similarly, transhipments to GCC ports are experiencing the same issue.

Air Freight Constraints

While Jebel Ali port is congested, shippers from Dubai are switching their mode of transport to Air Freight for urgent consignments. Hence, Air traffic has become congested, leading to some constraints in obtaining space at short notice. Kindly note, receipt of booking confirmations are currently taking 3-4 days from the date of booking.

Due to the holiday season, passenger cargo is being prioritized leading to further delays to regular cargo shipments. Additional priority is placed on high paid cargo and perishables.

Ground Freight 

There are also some delays in getting FASAH appointments, contributing towards delays for drivers at the UAE borders.
OOG cargo meant for Saudi must move to Dammam port with escort or convoy for scanning. As Dammam port is congested, alternate routing through the Bartha border sees similar delays. 

Please kindly be aware of the current market challenges in the UAE and reach out to Crane Worldwide Logistics for any support required at this time, we are here to help!