Saudi Arabia Secures Membership on IMO Council 2026–2027

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has successfully won membership in the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council for the 2026–2027 term. The election took place in London, United Kingdom, where Saudi Arabia received 142 votes from member states, confirming its important role in shaping the global maritime industry. The IMO, a specialized United Nations agency, is responsible for establishing international standards for maritime safety, reducing pollution from ships, and protecting the marine environment.

Minister of Transport and Logistic Services and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Transport General Authority (TGA), Saleh Al-Jasser, expressed his sincere thanks to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and HRH the Crown Prince for their continuous support for the Kingdom’s transport sector. He emphasized that Saudi Arabia’s election reflects the international community’s confidence in the country’s capabilities and its growing influence in global maritime affairs.

TGA highlighted that this achievement is a result of the strong support provided by the Kingdom’s leadership to develop the maritime transport sector. It also represents a continuation of progress under Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a key player in international transport and logistics. The Kingdom’s maritime achievements include the development of modern ports, a leading regional fleet, and advanced shipping operations that improve global competitiveness.

Saudi Arabia’s ports are strategically located along major trade routes, including the Red Sea, through which approximately 13% of global trade passes. The National Transport and Logistics Strategy aims to increase port efficiency, facilitate smoother trade flows, and expand marine tourism, including cruise and coastal transport services. These initiatives enhance the Kingdom’s strategic position and reinforce its status as a global maritime hub.

The election to the IMO Council also underlines Saudi Arabia’s influential role in international maritime regulation. The Kingdom continues to contribute to improving maritime security, promoting safe and efficient shipping, and supporting global efforts to protect the marine environment. By participating in the IMO Council, Saudi Arabia will work closely with member states to implement international maritime policies, encourage sustainable practices, and share expertise to advance global maritime transport systems.

Furthermore, the Kingdom’s membership strengthens its capacity to shape discussions on maritime safety, environmental protection, and sustainable transport. It allows Saudi Arabia to participate in key decisions, initiatives, and collaborations that impact the future of the maritime sector worldwide.

This achievement reflects Saudi Arabia’s long-term vision to position itself as a leading force in global maritime affairs. It recognizes the Kingdom’s continued investments in modernizing ports, expanding its fleet, and enhancing its logistics network. The election also highlights the success of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to meet international standards, protect marine ecosystems, and provide safe and reliable shipping services.

Through this membership, Saudi Arabia reaffirms its commitment to supporting international maritime cooperation, contributing to the development of regulations, and advancing joint initiatives that strengthen global maritime trade and security. The Kingdom’s proactive role in the IMO Council further consolidates its standing as a global maritime leader and reflects the vision of leadership to drive sustainable growth in the sector.