OOCL suspends Gulf bookings amid Strait of Hormuz crisis

Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) has temporarily suspended new bookings to several Gulf countries due to escalating tensions in the Middle East and restrictions on maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz.

The company instructed its vessels to maintain a safe distance from the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz as a precautionary measure.

Booking Suspension

OOCL has directed all offices to temporarily stop accepting new bookings to and from the following countries until further notice:

• Bahrain

• Saudi Arabia

• Qatar

• Kuwait

• Oman

• Iraq

• United Arab Emirates

The company clarified that Asia–Jeddah dry cargo shipments are currently not included in the suspension.

Cargo Already in Transit

For cargo already en route to the affected destinations, OOCL advised customers to contact their representatives and arrange alternative destinations where possible.

The carrier is also evaluating alternative discharge ports for cargo currently onboard vessels. Any changes will follow the terms and conditions outlined in the company’s bills of lading.

OOCL said it will continue to provide updates through its customer service channels as the situation develops.

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