Updates on Middle Eastern Ports Amid Geopolitical Conflict; Maersk Halts Gulf Transits

As geopolitical tensions escalate in the Middle East following recent military exchanges involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, port operations across the Gulf region are facing varying levels of disruption. While most major facilities remain operational, precautionary suspensions and security-related incidents highlight the growing pressure on key maritime trade hubs.

UAE Ports Resume After Brief Disruption

In the United Arab Emirates, major ports have largely maintained operations despite security concerns. Jebel Ali Port, the region’s largest container hub, briefly suspended activities after debris from aerial interceptions caused a fire at one berth. Following safety inspections, operations across all four terminals resumed, with enhanced precautionary measures now in place.

Other UAE ports — including Fujairah, Khor Fakkan, and Sharjah — continue to function normally, handling cargo and bunkering operations without formal suspension.

Oman, Bahrain and Qatar Maintain Services

In Oman, ports such as Duqm remain operational despite reports of drone activity in nearby waters. One worker was reportedly injured in a related incident outside port premises, but authorities have kept port services active while advising heightened caution.

Bahrain temporarily suspended certain port movements, including pilotage services, as a precautionary response to aerial threats, although detailed advisories have been limited.

In Qatar, key facilities including Ras Laffan and Mesaieed continue to operate. However, GPS signal disruptions have prompted navigational warnings and increased vigilance among shipping operators.

Other Gulf States Continue Normal Operations

Ports in Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia are functioning without major operational halts. Despite broader transit disruptions and warnings related to the Strait of Hormuz — a critical passage for roughly 20% of global oil trade and significant LNG volumes — port terminals in these countries continue cargo handling and vessel services under standard safety protocols.

Shipping data indicates that numerous tankers and cargo vessels have anchored in Gulf waters, reflecting caution among operators amid regional security uncertainties.

Global Shipping Adjustments Intensify

The escalating conflict has prompted several global carriers to reassess routing decisions. Some vessels are avoiding high-risk areas, including the Strait of Hormuz and, in certain cases, the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Suez Canal. Alternative routes around the Cape of Good Hope are being used, resulting in longer transit times and higher operating costs.

These adjustments, combined with temporary port suspensions and security restrictions, are increasing pressure on global freight markets. Industry participants are closely monitoring the situation, as prolonged disruption could affect freight rates, insurance premiums, and supply chain stability.

Maersk Suspends Key Gulf and Suez Transits

Maersk has announced precautionary operational changes across the Gulf region. The company has suspended all vessel transits through the Strait of Hormuz and paused future Trans-Suez sailings via the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and the Suez Canal, citing deteriorating security conditions.

As part of its contingency measures, Maersk is rerouting key services — including ME11 (Middle East–India to Mediterranean) and MECL (Middle East–India to US East Coast) — around the Cape of Good Hope. These diversions significantly extend voyage durations compared to traditional routes.

The carrier also indicated potential operational disruptions in the UAE, Oman, and Qatar. Warehousing facilities in the UAE have been temporarily closed, and office operations are being limited in accordance with local government safety guidance. Maersk stated that it continues to accept cargo for the region where feasible and will provide updates as the situation develops.

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