Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd to relaunch FM1 service
Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd have announced the relaunch of the FM1 service under their Gemini Cooperation, restoring direct container shipping connections between Asia and Khor Fakkan in the Middle East.
The relaunched service will operate through a five-port rotation covering Qingdao, Ningbo, Tanjung Pelepas, Khor Fakkan and Singapore, before returning to Qingdao. The first sailing is scheduled to depart Qingdao on 17 October 2026, with the vessel Maersk Athabasca, voyage 642W.
According to the carriers’ announcement, the vessel is expected to arrive at Khor Fakkan on 16 November 2026. The service will provide additional direct ocean connectivity to the port while existing operational precautions across the Middle East remain in place.
FM1 rotation and operational arrangements
The announced port rotation is:
Qingdao – Ningbo – Tanjung Pelepas – Khor Fakkan – Singapore – Qingdao
The FM1 relaunch will strengthen the Gemini network’s connections between Asian export markets and Khor Fakkan. Maersk’s existing landside transport solutions will complement the service, providing connections to the Upper Gulf.
However, the carriers confirmed that existing booking restrictions and cargo acceptance guidelines remain applicable. The introduction of the relaunched service does not represent a general removal of operational restrictions affecting shipments to the region.
Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd also stated that they will continue monitoring security developments across the Middle East. Any subsequent changes to services operating within the Gemini Cooperation will depend on the evolving regional situation.
The first FM1 sailing remains scheduled for 17 October, with the service’s initial arrival at Khor Fakkan planned for 16 November, subject to the announced operational arrangements.
