Maersk Suspends Gulf Bookings Until Further Notice Over Security Fears

Maersk halts cargo bookings across key Gulf ports as security risks rise in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.

By Precious E.

Global shipping giant Maersk has suspended cargo bookings to and from several Gulf countries until further notice, citing mounting security concerns as fighting in the Middle East intensifies.

The company announced on Wednesday that it is halting booking acceptance for shipments involving the United Arab Emirates, Oman excluding Salalah, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and parts of Saudi Arabia, specifically Dammam and Jubail. The decision takes effect immediately.

Maersk said exceptions will be made for critical supplies such as food, medicine, and other essential goods.

Jordan and Lebanon are not affected by the suspension. The company confirmed that two of its vessels are currently operating in the Gulf.

Maersk Suspends Gulf Bookings as Strait Tensions Rise

The move comes days after Maersk stopped transits through the Suez Canal and the Strait of Hormuz, two of the world’s most strategic maritime corridors.

Other major shipping operators have taken similar steps following threats linked to Iran’s military escalation in the region.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced over the weekend that the Strait of Hormuz was closed, a claim followed by a statement on Wednesday asserting “complete control” of the waterway. The group warned that vessels attempting to pass through could face missile strikes or drone attacks.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most important oil transit routes globally. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s seaborne crude oil passes through the narrow channel connecting the Gulf to international markets.

Energy markets have reacted sharply, with oil prices climbing on fears of supply disruptions.

In response, U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. Navy stands ready to escort oil tankers through the corridor to ensure freedom of navigation.

Maersk’s decision to suspend Gulf bookings is expected to disrupt supply chains across the Middle East and beyond. Businesses that rely on Gulf ports for exports and imports may face delays, higher freight costs, and logistical uncertainty.

The development highlights the growing commercial fallout from the regional conflict, as shipping firms weigh the safety of crews and vessels against rising global demand for energy and goods.

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For now, Maersk suspends Gulf bookings as a precautionary measure, with the company saying it will continue to monitor the security situation before resuming normal operations.