Maersk Restricts Khor Fakkan and Fujairah Bookings; MSC Gains Pricing Advantage on India–Jebel Ali Trade

The disruption around the Strait of Hormuz is now creating another challenge for Indian exporters, with congestion at alternative UAE ports affecting cargo acceptance, shipping schedules and freight rates.

In its advisory dated 30 October 2026, Maersk announced temporary booking restrictions involving Khor Fakkan and Fujairah, citing operational constraints and congestion. The move comes as shipping lines continue to manage cargo flows away from the risks associated with direct Strait of Hormuz transits.

The current booking position from India shows a widening difference between carriers. CMA CGM is accepting small lots from North and West India but is currently not accepting bookings from East and South India. Maersk has also introduced temporary restrictions, while MSC continues to accept bookings from across India. DP World is continuing its available cargo and logistics services.

MSC gains an advantage as freight remains elevated

With fewer booking options among the three major container carriers, MSC has gained considerable pricing leverage on India–Jebel Ali shipments.

Current indicative MSC freight for a 20-foot container is:

Freight indications from DP World and other available operators are broadly around similar levels, subject to service and booking conditions.

MSC's wider booking acceptance gives it a stronger position in the current market. Although other operators remain active, the limited competition among the leading carriers may help MSC maintain prevailing freight levels rather than trigger aggressive rate reductions. East Indian exporters are particularly affected, paying approximately USD 1,000 more per 20-foot container than their West Indian counterparts.

Port congestion adds to the pressure

The problem is no longer limited to vessel security in the Strait of Hormuz. Diverted cargo is putting additional pressure on Khor Fakkan and Fujairah, with congestion extending to vessel waiting, container handling and onward transportation.

According to Kuehne+Nagel's 30 October operational update, average vessel waiting time reached 7.25 days at Khor Fakkan and 8.86 days at Fujairah over the preceding seven days.

Maersk has also been using alternative arrangements for selected cargo, including discharge at Fujairah followed by bonded road transportation to Jebel Ali, depending on operational feasibility. Such arrangements can add handling, transportation and delivery costs.

Outlook for Indian exporters

For Indian shippers, the immediate challenge is securing confirmed space, predictable transit times and clarity on the final port of discharge. The current situation also highlights the growing dependence on MSC for India–Jebel Ali bookings.

Until congestion eases and additional carrier capacity becomes available, freight levels are likely to remain elevated, with limited scope for meaningful rate competition.

The Strait of Hormuz disruption has moved beyond a maritime security issue. It is now directly influencing carrier competition, port capacity and the cost of Indian trade with the UAE.

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