In the Gulf, over 800 merchant ships remain stranded due to ongoing regional conflicts, leading to a new challenge: the accumulation of barnacles, algae, and jellyfish on their hulls and propellers. This fouling not only complicates the eventual departure of these vessels but also increases fuel consumption as ships must work harder to navigate through the water. Shipping executives, including Rolf Habben Jansen from Hapag-Lloyd, have reported significant marine growth on their vessels, which has raised operational costs and delayed cargo deliveries.

The disruption has caused freight costs to surge by four to six times, forcing shipping lines to reroute through less equipped ports, which has created congestion and logistical bottlenecks. In response, Dubai Customs has introduced emergency measures to alleviate pressure on supply chains, such as extending transit timelines to 90 days and facilitating cargo movement across multiple ports.

As the situation drags on, seafarers are facing severe psychological strain from prolonged periods at sea, with some waiting over 70 days for essential repairs and parts. The combination of environmental challenges and logistical disruptions continues to complicate the recovery of Gulf shipping operations.