Development works at the Suez Canal Economic Zone are progressing well, according to a senior official, with the brand-new berth at Port Sokhna welcoming its first cruise ships.
Deputy chairman of the southern part of the zone, Walid Youssef, said that the circulation and reception of ships was “working perfectly” alongside the construction works, which were nearing completion.
The development included 4 new basins and 18 km (11 mi) of marine berths, as well as commercial & logistical areas covering 5.3 sq. km (2 sq. mi).
The area is served by a rail network stretching 33 km (20.5 mi), which also connects to Sokhna-El Alamein electric train service.
Youssef added there was constant coordination with the relevant authorities in order to ensure the smooth operation of the port as the works progressed.
On Saturday, February 4th, the port welcomed the MSC's liner Splendida with 2826 passengers onboard. Splendida was en route from Yanbu Al-Bahr (Saudi Arabia) to Safaga/Luxor (Egypt).
Sokhna port also received Emerald Azzurra, carrying 75 guests from Sharm El-Sheikh (Egypt), and mv Clio, which had sailed from Hurghada (Egypt) with 85 passengers.