The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has officially issued a unified license to PIL, formally recognizing the shipping line as an authorized foreign investor within the Kingdom’s port network.

Issued under the Maritime Agency Services regulations, this license is designed to boost operational quality and efficiency across Saudi ports. A core objective of the agreement is to encourage knowledge transfer, ensuring that local maritime operations align closely with established international standards.

PIL, which maintains its regional headquarters in Riyadh and operates across 29 countries, is well-positioned to support Mawani’s broader developmental goals. The licensing initiative is a key part of the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy, which aims to:

  • Attract global maritime expertise
  • Enhance overall port competitiveness
  • Develop a robust, business-friendly maritime environment

By authorizing major global carriers like PIL to operate directly, the move further solidifies Saudi Arabia’s position as a strategic logistics hub connecting trade flows across Asia, Africa, and Europe.