According to the Sharjah Ports, Customs, and Free Zones Authority, UAE terminal operator Gulftainer is advancing the expansion of the Khorfakkan Commercial Container Terminal, increasing its existing annual throughput capacity from 3.5 million TEU to 5 million TEU, with a long-term target capacity of over 10 million TEU.

Upon completion, the terminal's designed throughput will more than double from its current level. The Sharjah government aims to leverage the expansion to strengthen Khorfakkan Port's strategic position as a gateway hub on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Oman.

On August 16, the UAE's "From Khorfakkan, Opportunities Begin" development plan was officially launched, outlining the integrated linkages between the port, international shipping routes, and Sharjah's logistics network.

Khorfakkan Port features deep-water berths and ship-to-shore gantry cranes, capable of accommodating the world's largest container vessels. Located on the UAE's east coast, the port allows vessels to access the Gulf of Oman directly without transiting the Strait of Hormuz, offering a prominent geographical advantage.

The expansion project is part of Gulftainer's US$2 billion global trade infrastructure strategy. Supporting plans also include the Al Dhaid Logistics Park and the Sajaa Logistics Park, which together will provide an annual logistics handling capacity of 2.3 million TEU once completed.

Gulftainer plans to connect Khorfakkan Port to the Etihad Rail network, enabling an integrated multi-modal transport corridor combining maritime, road, and rail freight.

The Khorfakkan Commercial Terminal currently has 6 berths with a total quay length of 1,880 meters, equipped with 18 quay cranes, and a container yard covering 450,000 square meters.

Founded in 1976 in Sharjah, Gulftainer is a subsidiary of Crescent Enterprises, a diversified UAE business group. The company operates the Khorfakkan Commercial Terminal under a concession agreement with the Sharjah Ports, Customs, and Free Zones Authority.