Introduction
Egypt has one of the most strategically important maritime locations in the world, connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa through the Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, and the Suez Canal. As a result, Egypt operates a strong network of commercial ports that play a critical role in international trade, logistics, and economic growth.
Currently, Egypt has over 15 commercial seaports, managed by different port authorities, serving container shipping, bulk cargo, oil, gas, and general trade.
Number of Commercial Ports in Egypt
Egypt’s commercial ports are distributed across:
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The Mediterranean Sea
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The Red Sea
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The Suez Canal corridor
These ports handle millions of containers annually and support both import/export activities and global transit trade.
Key Commercial Ports in Egypt
1. Port of Alexandria
📍 Location: Mediterranean Sea
🚢 Type: General cargo & container port
The Port of Alexandria is the largest and oldest commercial port in Egypt, handling nearly 40% of Egypt’s foreign trade. It serves as a vital gateway for imports and exports, including food, industrial goods, and containers.
2. El Dekheila Port
📍 Location: West of Alexandria
🚢 Type: Bulk & container cargo
El Dekheila Port complements Alexandria Port and specializes in bulk cargo, steel, grains, and containers. It plays a key role in industrial supply chains and heavy industries.
3. Port Said Port
📍 Location: Northern entrance of the Suez Canal
🚢 Type: Container & transit port
Port Said is one of Egypt’s most strategic ports due to its direct access to the Suez Canal. It serves international container lines and supports transit trade between East and West.
4. Damietta Port
📍 Location: Mediterranean Sea
🚢 Type: Container & dry bulk
Damietta Port is a modern, highly efficient port known for its container terminal and grain handling facilities. It is closely connected to industrial zones and agricultural exports.
5. Ain Sokhna Port
📍 Location: Red Sea
🚢 Type: Container, industrial & logistics port
Ain Sokhna Port is part of the Suez Canal Economic Zone (SCZONE) and is one of the fastest-growing ports in Egypt. It supports heavy industries, logistics services, and global shipping routes connecting Asia and Europe.
6. Suez Port
📍 Location: Southern entrance of the Suez Canal
🚢 Type: Oil, gas & general cargo
Suez Port mainly handles petroleum products, bulk cargo, and general trade, supporting energy supply chains and regional commerce.
Economic Importance of Egyptian Ports
Egyptian commercial ports contribute significantly to:
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🚢 International maritime trade
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📦 Import and export operations
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🏗️ Industrial development
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🌍 Global supply chains
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💼 Foreign investment attraction
With continuous modernization, digitization, and port expansion projects, Egypt is positioning itself as a regional logistics and shipping hub.
Conclusion
Egypt’s commercial ports form the backbone of its maritime economy. From Alexandria and Damietta on the Mediterranean to Ain Sokhna and Suez on the Red Sea, these ports connect global markets through one of the world’s most important trade routes—the Suez Canal. Their strategic location and ongoing development ensure Egypt remains a key player in global trade for decades to come.
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