The ongoing Middle East conflict has drastically affected global maritime trade, disrupting shipping routes and port operations.
The ongoing conflict in the Middle East, lasting over six months, has severely impacted global maritime trade, with shipping routes and port infrastructure in turmoil.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping artery, has seen cargo volumes drop by over 90%, according to the Joint Maritime Information Centre (JMIC). This decline is driven by vessel attacks, port damage, and heightened regional security threats, including piracy and militant activity. Since March 2026, 88 incidents of vessel attacks or damage have been reported, with threats ranging from GPS jamming to oil spills impacting marine ecosystems.
US naval blockades and regional instability have caused a significant shift in shipping patterns. Vessel transits through key chokepoints like the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait have dropped by one-third in mid-August, while the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Gulf remain high-risk zones for maritime operations. These disruptions are forcing port operators to adapt swiftly.
Ports and logistics companies are pivoting their strategies to mitigate disruption. DP World has reported a 6% drop in container throughput at Jebel Ali Port but remains operational. The group is investing in new infrastructure, including two terminals on the UAE's east coast in Fujairah, under a 50-year concession agreement. These developments aim to enhance supply chain resilience and flexibility for cargo owners.
Abu Dhabi Ports Group (AD Ports Group) has also shifted operations to Fujairah and Khorfakkan, expanding warehousing, creating land and air bridge corridors, and redirecting vessel traffic. However, UAE container throughput dropped 65% year-on-year in Q2, with bulk cargo volumes down 67%. Despite these setbacks, AD Ports Group is leveraging its international network, including ports in Spain, Egypt, and Angola, to sustain growth.
Towage operators are navigating similar challenges, turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for efficiency gains. Companies like Noatum Group are using AI to integrate data on vessel positioning, berth capacity, and tugboat availability, streamlining port operations and improving fleet efficiency through just-in-time execution.
In Qatar, Milaha reported significant disruptions, with LNG shipping activity down 93%. Damaged terminals, reduced trade volumes, and increased credit risk have further strained operations. The financial outlook remains uncertain, with prolonged instability threatening future recovery.
