Lloyd’s Register Partners with MAWANI to Advance Saudi Maritime Digitalization
Lloyd’s Register (LR) and the Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at accelerating **Saudi maritime digitalisation ** and modernising **Saudi port infrastructure**. The strategic collaboration focuses on integrating **smart shipping** solutions, enhancing maritime governance, and building national capability across the **Saudi maritime sector**.
Strategic Collaboration and Scope
Under the newly signed agreement, LR and MAWANI will explore joint initiatives in safety, sustainability, digital innovation, and professional workforce development. The partnership aims to enhance operational efficiency, data integration, and environmental management across major Saudi commercial ports.
According to MAWANI, the initiative creates a dedicated platform for knowledge exchange on modern **maritime technology**. The joint efforts will assess the deployment of Port Management Information Systems, process optimisation tools, and data-driven operational resilience frameworks to prepare the Kingdom’s port network for future global trade requirements.
Building on Existing Partnerships
The MoU builds upon an established operational relationship between the two organisations. In January 2025, LR was appointed to support management systems and ISO certification preparations across four key gateways: Jeddah Islamic Port, King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, Yanbu Commercial Port, and Jubail Commercial Port. That initial scope covered quality and environmental management procedures aligned with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards, along with Port State Control training and personnel development.
The expanded agreement broadens this scope, focusing on strategic decarbonization, green port programs, competency frameworks, and workforce localisation. It directly supports Saudi Arabia’s broader National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which seeks to position the Kingdom as a premier global logistics hub connecting three continents.
For international shipowners, charterers, and terminal operators, the partnership signifies a concerted push toward streamlined port operations and digitised administrative workflows in Saudi waters. Enhanced data sharing and standardised digital processes are expected to reduce port turnaround times, improve regulatory compliance monitoring, and optimise vessel traffic management. As global shipping continues its transition toward zero-emission and digitally integrated operations, the modernisation of Saudi Arabian port hubs provides a crucial foundation for resilient, smart shipping corridors across the region.
