Saudi Ports Authority MAWANI Partners with Lloyd’s Register to Standardise Maritime Operations

The Saudi Ports Authority, MAWANI, has signed an agreement with the British classification authority, Lloyd’s Register, to unify operational and maritime procedures across Saudi ports. This partnership is designed to enhance the ports’ efficiency, sustainability, and global competitiveness by bringing them in line with international standards.

A key focus of the agreement is to strengthen Saudi ports' attractiveness to global commerce. By streamlining operations and adopting international standards, the initiative aims to attract increased trade and investment in order to help position the Kingdom as a leader in the maritime sector. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader economic vision, which prioritises sustainability, innovation, and the modernisation of key industries.

In addition to this, this agreement complements Saudi Arabia’s active engagement within the International Maritime Organization (IMO). As a member state, the Kingdom has consistently worked to align its maritime policies with global frameworks established by the IMO, including those related to environmental sustainability and operational standardisation. Through the integration of the IMO’s regulations into its domestic operations, Saudi Arabia is demonstrating its dedication to advancing international maritime safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

The partnership is also intended to support the ongoing adoption of the highest standards of environmental performance and quality; MAWANI aims to achieve ISO 14001:2015 certification for environmental management, ensuring sustainable and environmentally conscious operations throughout its ports. In addition, the agreement seeks to obtain ISO 9001:2015 certification for quality management, further solidifying the authority’s commitment to excellence.

Another significant aspect of the collaboration is improving port operational efficiency. By standardising procedures and optimising processes, MAWANI is working to enhance the performance of its ports while improving client satisfaction. The operational model being implemented under this agreement is designed to ensure that Saudi ports remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global maritime industry.

This partnership with Lloyd’s Register reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modernising its maritime infrastructure while adhering to international agreements and environmental standards. By adopting advanced practices and ensuring operational efficiency, the initiative reinforces the Kingdom’s ambition to lead global efforts in sustainable and innovative maritime operations.