Introduction

Maritime transport is considered as an active field that has an influential role in the economy and security of nations. Ports system is an integral part of the maritime transport that contributes to the efficiency of cargo handling and movement of ships. Ports are an important hub of wealth and national economic development, so the Faculty of Maritime Studies at King Abdul-Aziz University includes among its Departments, the Department of ports and maritime transport, which provides outstanding scientific and training program designed in accordance with the provisions of the University and in compliance with the requirements of the International Maritime bodies and organizations, and grants its graduates the Bachelor of Science degree in ports and maritime transport. The study in this program is based on several key subjects, such as: (1) Maritime management, economics and statistics, (2) Regulations and laws of maritime transport and insurance, (3) Operation and management of ports and maritime shipping, (4) Maritime transport economics and ports planning, and (5) Logistics theories. The students receive during their period of study a practical training on the operation of global ports abroad.