Maersk has confirmed that service flows across Middle East corridors are significantly disrupted due to escalating security risks and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Maersk vessels are currently unable to safely transit the area. As a result, service flows across the Middle East corridors have been significantly disrupted.

In order to safeguard cargo and maintain continuity of service, the company has implemented contingency measures across the affected routes, including alternative routings and operational adjustments. As such, it has been necessary to implement an emergency freight increase to cover these constraints and increased operating costs.

Ocean Update

We are taking operational measure to ensure the safety of our personnel, safeguard your cargo and maintain service stability across affected trade in the Middle East. Following our latest risk assessment and operational review, the following decisions are being implemented.

We have suspended reefer, dangerous/special cargo acceptance in and out of UAE, Oman, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia until further notice. Exceptions will be made for critical foodstuff, medicine and other essential goods.

We have suspended all new bookings between the India Subcontinent (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka) and the Upper Gulf markets of UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, Iraq, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia (Dammam and Jubail only). This suspension does not apply to other trade corridors.

We are currently not accepting dangerous cargo to and from Israel until further notice. All other acceptance to/from Israel remains open.

Terminal Update

All terminals in the UAE, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Iraq are fully operational. In Kuwait, the port of Shuwaik is fully operational, and at the port of Shuaiba, operations have partially resumed. The port of Bahrain has suspended operations. In Oman, Sohar is fully operational.

Air Update

As the situation continues to evolve, several countries like the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Iraq, and Iran have announced the temporary suspension of their air spaces. Additionally, as a precautionary measure, airlines have also cancelled or re-routed their flights through the region. The reduced flight options and last minute carrier schedule changes may result in delays or extended transit times.

Impact on sea‑ports and ocean operations may also contribute to extended lead times, particularly for Sea‑Air volumes connecting through the affected hubs. Furthermore, ground movement at the airports and cargo terminals, such as cargo handovers, acceptance, and processing, may be affected where local restrictions or staff shortages occur.

Landside Update

Landside services like trucking, rail, and warehousing remain operational across the region. Customers should expect possible border congestion, customs delays, and variable transit times. Alternative routes and stricter security may cause schedule changes and cost shifts. The situation is being monitored for quick response and efficient management.

Existing Bookings and Cargo in Transit

Confirmed bookings accepted prior to this advisory will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis in light of the current operational constraints. Cargo already in transit remains under active operational management. Our teams will continue to monitor movements closely and contact customers directly should any adjustments or further actions be required.