Home News Khorfakkan Port Hosts Massive Container Ship MSC Mariella

Khorfakkan Port Hosts One of World's Largest Container Ships

Sep 3, 2026
72 min
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Sep 3, 2026 12:31
Khorfakkan Port receives one of world’s largest container ships

## Arrival of MSC Mariella

Khorfakkan Port recently welcomed the MSC Mariella, a massive container ship operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company. This vessel, measuring approximately 400 meters in length and over 61 meters in width, can carry up to 24,346 twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs). Its arrival highlights the port's capability to handle some of the largest ships in the world.

## Port Capabilities

The port's container terminal is well-equipped with six berths totaling around 1,880 meters in length and a draught of up to 16 meters. It features 18 ship-to-shore cranes and extensive storage facilities, enabling efficient handling of large cargo volumes. Operated by Gulftainer, the terminal provides comprehensive services including container handling, storage, and customs clearance.

## Strategic Location

Situated on the UAE's eastern coast, Khorfakkan Port offers direct access to the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean. This strategic location connects it to major trade routes linking Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, the Arabian Gulf, and East Africa. The port's connectivity is further enhanced by a network of roads and logistics facilities, facilitating cargo movement within the UAE and beyond.

## Expansion Plans

The port is undergoing expansion to increase its annual handling capacity from 3.5 million TEUs to 5 million TEUs, with future plans to reach 10 million TEUs. The arrival of the MSC Mariella underscores the port's readiness to accommodate ultra-large container vessels, reflecting confidence from global shipping lines in Sharjah's maritime infrastructure.

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