CMA CGM Suspends Cargo Bookings at Key Middle East Ports Amid US–Iran Conflict

French shipping giant CMA CGM has suspended cargo bookings at several Middle Eastern ports as tensions escalate amid the ongoing U.S.–Iran war, citing safety concerns for its crews, vessels, and customer shipments.

In a statement released Wednesday, the Marseille-based carrier said it would immediately halt all new bookings for loading and discharge at ports across multiple countries in the region until further notice.

The suspension applies to all ports in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar, as well as most ports in United Arab Emirates, with the exception of Fujairah and Khor Fakkan. In Saudi Arabia, bookings are suspended at all ports except Jeddah, King Abdullah Port, Yanbu, and NEOM. The measures also cover Iraq’s Umm Qasr port.

The company described the move as a precautionary step designed to safeguard maritime operations in what it called “the current volatile environment.”

CMA CGM confirmed that containers already loaded on vessels or awaiting shipment at origin ports will be handled on a case-by-case basis, with customers contacted directly by local offices.

The carrier also announced the activation of emergency operational procedures for shipments to and from Iraq (Umm Qasr), Bahrain, Kuwait, Yemen, Qatar, Oman, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia.

These measures include rerouting vessels to alternative ports when necessary. Diversions will be executed in accordance with Clause 10 of CMA CGM’s bill of lading and subject to applicable force majeure provisions.

The company said its Electronic Cargo System (ECS) will be applied in line with client instructions, with payment required prior to cargo release, except for shipments originating from the United States.

CMA CGM warned that any costs arising from emergency port discharges, including detention, demurrage, storage, and handling fees, will be borne by customers.

Despite the sweeping restrictions, the shipping line emphasized its commitment to maintaining service continuity and transparency during what it described as a challenging period.

“Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to provide updates as developments occur,” the company said.

The decision underscores mounting risks to maritime trade flows through the Gulf region, a critical artery for global energy and container shipping routes. Industry analysts say prolonged disruptions could tighten freight capacity and drive up transport costs if hostilities continue.

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CMA CGM

Press Release

Advisory #5 - Middle East - Suspension of all bookings

Ports & Terminals Shipping

In view of the on-going developments in the region, CMA CGM has decided to suspend all bookings with immediate effect and until further notice for ports of loading / ports of discharge located in the following countries:

- Bahrain (all ports)

- Kuwait (all ports)

- Qatar (all ports)

- United Arab Emirates (all ports except Fujairah and Khor Fakkan)

- Saudi Arabia (all ports except Jeddah, King Abdallah Port, Yanbu, NEOM)

- Iraq (port of Umm Qasr)

The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure the safeguard of ots crew, vessels and customers cargo under the current circumstances.

For the containers already on board or ready to load at the port of origin, specific information will be communicated by our local offices to each customer individually.

We remain fully committed to maintaining service continuity and transparency during this challenging period. Our teams are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to keep you informed of any significant developments.

We thank you for your understanding and continued support of CMA CGM Group services.