Saudi Arabia's national shipping company Bahri has placed its first order for six dry bulk carriers with International Maritime Industries, marking the launch of the Kingdom's large-scale shipbuilding programme, reported Dubai's Logistics Middle East.

The vessels will be built at IMI's Ras Al-Khair yard, the region's most advanced maritime facility. The site is central to Saudi Arabia�� industrial strategy and supports both domestic and global vessel construction needs.

Bahri CEO Ahmed Ali Al-Subaey said the partnership expands the company's fleet and helps build a competitive shipbuilding ecosystem. The newbuilds will enhance Bahri's reach in strategic markets and improve supply chain resilience.

The order aligns with Vision 2030 and the Saudi Inc. initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and develop globally competitive industries. Localising shipbuilding is expected to reduce external dependencies and create long-term value.

The geared Ultramax carriers are designed for flexibility, with onboard cranes allowing access to ports with limited infrastructure. This enables Bahri to serve niche and emerging markets and reduce reliance on traditional trade routes.

Ras Al-Khair will also serve as a knowledge transfer platform, building skills and technological expertise among Saudi talent entering the maritime sector.

The move positions Saudi Arabia to play a larger role in global trade flows, especially across the Middle East, Asia and Africa. With maritime transport accounting for 80 per cent of global trade, the order signals the Kingdom�� intent to become a key logistics player.