48 Sharjah Throughput: 2,501,829teu (+15.1%)

Gulftainer, the operator of Khorfakkan Container Terminal (KCT) and Sharjah Container Terminal (SCT), says it benefited from buoyant traffic in 2008, while congestion in neighbouring ports brought volumes up significantly. Phase two of KCT's expansion will be completed this year, increasing the 1,460-metre quay by 440 metres, protected by an 800-metre breakwater. Dredging is already completed, providing a 16.5-metre draught alongside. Four super post-panamax gantries are due to be installed early this year.

This follows on from four super post-panamax and two post panamax gantries that were installed as part of the Phase One expansion, which comprises 400 metres of new quay with 16 metres draught alongside and a 35ha of yard space.

Gulftainer says KCT is the fastest container port in the world, with regular productivity of over 50 moves per crane per hour. The operator's commercial manager, Keith Nuttall, tells Cargo Systems that this efficiency "ensures that shipping lines aren't delayed, can keep to schedule and save time and money – key factors in these days of rising costs and congested terminals".

Nuttall adds: "In 2009 it seems likely that fuel costs may be lower and hopefully inflation will be reduced too. However, the traffic on the roads still poses major challenges in the traditional centres – which is why our terminals are better alternatives – and costs are still high in Dubai, in particular. Therefore, many businesses will be looking to switch to other areas such as Sharjah, which provides opportunities for our facilities."