Khalifa bin salman port: The ultra-large container vessel MSC MARIELLA, operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company, has made its historic arrival at Khalifa Bin Salman Port, becoming the largest container ship ever to enter the Kingdom of Bahrain’s territorial waters. This event marks a pivotal moment in the development of Bahrain’s maritime and logistics sector, underscoring its growing prominence as a regional logistics hub.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Bader Hood Al Mahmood, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications for Ports and Maritime Affairs, emphasized the significance of this milestone. He highlighted that the vessel’s arrival is a testament to the increasing confidence of global shipping lines in Bahrain’s infrastructure and efficiency, as well as its ability to accommodate the latest generation of ultra-large container vessels.
The arrival of MSC MARIELLA is expected to bolster Bahrain’s position on the global shipping map by enhancing direct trade flows with major international markets, in alignment with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. This strategic development not only strengthens Bahrain’s economy but also increases its competitiveness on regional and global scales.
To commemorate this occasion, commemorative shields were exchanged, symbolizing the advancement of Bahrain’s maritime sector and highlighting the strategic importance of Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
The vessel’s arrival is part of the “CLANGA” service, which connects Bahrain directly to major global markets, improving supply chain efficiency and reducing transit times. This service supports import and export activities, providing a competitive edge to regional traders and investors.
With a carrying capacity of 24,346 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) and a length of approximately 400 metres, MSC MARIELLA is classified among the world’s Ultra-Large Container Vessels (ULCVs). Its call at Khalifa Bin Salman Port demonstrates the port’s advanced capabilities to handle the largest container ships in service today.