Maersk Halts Cargo Bookings for Gulf States

Global shipping and logistics company Maersk has temporarily halted most cargo bookings to and from several Gulf states as regional tensions continue to disrupt trade and transportation.

The Danish shipping giant confirmed that it has suspended cargo bookings involving multiple Gulf countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia until further notice. The move follows a risk assessment conducted by the company amid ongoing instability in the region.

According to the company, the suspension applies to most new cargo bookings, though certain routes and operations remain partially active. Key ports such as Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdullah Port in Saudi Arabia, as well as Salalah Port in Oman, are still operational, allowing limited cargo movement under controlled conditions.

Maersk has also paused the acceptance of refrigerated cargo and dangerous or special cargo shipments to and from several Gulf markets. However, exceptions may be made for critical supplies such as food and medicines to ensure essential goods continue to reach affected areas.

The company said the decision was made to safeguard crew members, cargo, and shipping operations amid growing security risks affecting maritime routes in the region.

The suspension comes at a time when the Middle East’s key shipping lanes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, have faced disruptions due to escalating geopolitical tensions, prompting many global shipping firms to reassess operations and reroute vessels.

Industry experts warn that the halt in bookings could disrupt regional supply chains and delay shipments, potentially impacting trade flows between the Gulf and international markets.

Maersk has said it will continue monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as conditions evolve.

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