Saudi Arabias first fully automated, remote-controlled cranes arrives at Port of NEOM

With the introduction of Saudi Arabia's first completely automated, remote-controlled cranes, the Port of NEOM has made significant progress toward becoming one of the most cutting-edge and environmentally friendly trading hubs in the world. The milestone strengthens the port's strategic position on the Red Sea's East–West global commerce route and helps NEOM's goal to open Terminal 1 by 2026.

At the Port of NEOM, the Electric Rubber-Tyred Gantry (eRTG) and Ship-To-Shore (STS) cranes are now in use. A transition toward a logistics workforce prepared for the future will be marked by these next-generation devices, which will increase port automation and enable high-volume container operations monitored from secure remote stations.

The port's infrastructure development is moving quickly, with the 900-meter quay wall completed and the access channel deepened to 18.5 meters, which will allow the largest ships in the world to pass via the Suez Canal.

Terminal 1 will include fully automated container transport technologies, which will improve supply chain resilience throughout Saudi Arabia and abroad and increase port efficiency.

The introduction of automation is accompanied by workforce development efforts. Ten participants, mostly from the nearby Tabuk region, are enrolled in a two-year technical operations course which includes Saudi women entering high-tech logistics positions as part of a specialized training program for remote crane operators.