Maritime Trade: The Backbone of China–Middle East Logistics
Ocean expédition remains the dominant mode of transport between China and Middle Eastern countries, accounting for over 70% of total freight volume. For commodities such as steel pipes, heavy machinery, vehicles, and bulk building materials, fret maritime offers unmatched capacity and cost-effectiveness.
Middle East Major Ports Receiving Chinese Cargo (2026)
| Port | Country | TEU Handled (Million) | Main Imports from China |
| Jebel Ali | UAE | 15.5 | Electronics, Machinery, Textiles |
| Dammam | Saudi Arabia | 1.8 | Automotive Parts, Chemicals |
| Hamad | Qatar | 1.2 | Construction Materials, Furniture |
| Sohar | Oman | 1.1 | Steel Products, Cement |
| Khalifa | UAE | 2.5 | Renewable Energy Equipment |
Source: Port Authority Reports
Sea Freight Pros & Cons
| Pour | Cons |
| Lowest cost per ton for long distances | Longer transit time (18–28 days) |
| High load capacity | Susceptible to port congestion |
| Best for heavy/bulky cargo | Requires precise documentation |
| Secure stowage for industrial goods | Weather can cause limited delays |
DDP Integration in Sea Freight — Why It Wins
HYTCARGO’s Delivered Duty Paid sea freight service is designed for clients seeking predictable costs and zero administrative burden.
| Factor | FOB | CIF | DDP Advantage |
| Fret maritime | Buyer arranges | Seller arranges | HYTCARGO arranges & guarantees booking |
| Import Clearance | Buyer | Buyer | HYTCARGO handles & pays duties |
| Last-mile Delivery | Buyer | Buyer | Included — direct to customer’s site |
| Cost Certainty | Faible | Moyen | High — single invoice |
DDP allows Chinese exporters to penetrate Middle Eastern markets without building local logistics teams — HYTCARGO acts as the complete operational extension of the shipper.
HYTCARGO’s Partnership Power
Sea freight contracts with MSC, MAERSK, COSCO, CMA CGM, OOCL give our clients:
- Priority booking in peak seasons
- Discounted seasonal rates
- Access to direct routes avoiding transshipment delays
Conclusion
In a trade environment where schedules, costs, and compliance directly affect profitability, HYTCARGO’s DDP sea freight delivers assured results: affordable, professional, and risk-free shipping from China to every major Middle Eastern port.