Go to @ Folk

Connecting Continents, Cultures, and Cargo

About us

The world is changed by an example. At Folk Maritime, we strive to set one that will inspire positive change globally

Folk Maritime Services, a PIF company, was launched in 2024, with the mission to connect regional ports seamlessly, and catalyze trade across the Middle East and East Africa. Our strategic goal is aligned with Saudi Arabia's vision to become a global logistics hub, underlining the Kingdom’s premier position in leading multiple high-growth industrial sectors. We are addressing the ‘white space’ in the region’s maritime sector by offering the first-of-its-kind feeder and regional liner shipping services. Folk Maritime is creating new trade lanes and delivering end-to-end shipping solutions, connecting key transshipment routes in the Arabian Gulf, Red Sea, and beyond, by delivering cost-effective and efficient logistics services that will drive transformational trade growth.

    Strategic location at the heart of global trade routes, supporting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global logistics hub

    Enhanced supply chain transparency and reliability through agile local and regional connectivity

    Committed to sustainable shipping practices, in alignment with the IMO's target of 40% Greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction by 2030

    Efficiency steers our endeavors, charting the course for groundbreaking industry standards

    Our vessels, schedules, and routes are customized to meet the unique preferences of our customers

    Dedicated to advancing skills, employment, and career growth within the maritime sector of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Building a Global Logistics Hub through Transformative Shipping Initiatives

Folk Maritime spearheads the journey towards positioning Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub. Leveraging the country's distinctive geographic advantage on the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, our strategic endeavors intend to improve connectivity, optimize logistics efficiency, and reinforce sector capabilities. We are committed to maritime sustainability, adhering to the IMO's target of 40% GHG reduction by 2030. We also support transformative technologies and the uptake of alternative zero—and near-zero GHG fuels. As a leading regional player in the maritime feeder and liner services, we actively strive to increase private sector participation in industries reliant on seamless logistics. Aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives, our commitment extends to enhancing export, re-export, and domestic cargo volumes, building a prosperous and influential future for the nation.

Our Mission

To deliver flexible and reliable solutions for our customers and create value for our shareholders while supporting the development of the logistics ecosystem within Kingdom Saudi Arabia and across the region.

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Our Vision

To be the leading liner and feeder operator in the Middle East and the surrounding region, further strengthening the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics hub.

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Our Values

Folk Maritime is a dynamic, innovative, and reliable logistics company committed to advancing Saudi Arabia’s transportation and logistics ambitions through continuous progress and consistent delivery.

Embodying a spirit of resolve, we represent a firm commitment to achieving our objectives.
We strive to exceed customer expectations and deliver exceptional results.
With a forward-thinking approach and meticulous attention to detail, we are prepared to tackle any challenges head-on.
We aim to elevate standards and explore new methods to enhance value for our customers.
We continually strive to provide excellent service, fostering trust, and enriching the overall customer experience.
We guide our customers to success with practical and adaptable solutions that meet their unique needs.
We are committed to maritime decarbonization and intend to implement sustainable solutions that mitigate the environmental impacts of our activity.
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Meet our leaders

Our dedicated and inspiring leaders have charted a transformative path, inviting us to join their shared endeavors.

Board of directors

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Abdullah Mohammed Alzamil
Chairman
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Abdullah Mohammed Alzamil
Chairman
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Bakr AlMuhanna
Vice Chairman
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Bakr AlMuhanna
Vice Chairman
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Abdullah Alsalem
Member
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Abdullah Alsalem
Member
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Faris AlJarboa
Member
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Faris AlJarboa
Member
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Ranjith Powell
Member
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Ranjith Powell
Member
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Jesper Kjaedegaard
Member
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Jesper Kjaedegaard
Member
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Peter Ford
Member
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Peter Ford
Member
Our team

Executive management team

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Poul Hestbaek
Chief Executive Officer
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Poul Hestbaek
Chief Executive Officer

Poul is a seasoned maritime industry leader. Coming to Folk Maritime after many years at Hamburg Süd, where he served in the last years as a Chief Executive Officer, directing business operations across Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific. Poul has an all-round maritime background and a master mariner before receiving his Master’s Degree in Shipping, Trade and Finance from Cass Business School in London.

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Kim Kennet Larsen
Chief Commercial Officer
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Kim Kennet Larsen
Chief Commercial Officer

Kim Kennet LarsenChief Commercial Officer, Folk MaritimeExperienced international business leader with a strong focus on sales, key client management, and global commercial strategy development. Kim has more than 30 years of international experience in maritime ports, shipping, supply chain activities, and renewable energy, with a proven track record for delivering strong results by building and engaging high-performance teams.Most recently, Kim worked as advisor in infrastructure development and management for ports and terminals, shipping strategy and execution, and supply chain solutions.Previously, Kim served as Vice President of Commercial, Business Development, and Strategy at Abu Dhabi Ports, where he led all commercial activities from 2017 to 2023. He has also held senior leadership roles at AP Moller Maersk and Unifeeder A/S, overseeing business unit strategy, network design, and commercial development. Kim holds a Market Economist degree from Aalborg Handelsskole and has completed executive management programs at IMD in Switzerland and London Business School in the UK.

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Khalid Fawzi
Chief Financial Officer
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Khalid Fawzi
Chief Financial Officer

Khalid Fawzi, an accomplished financial leader, is Folk Maritime's Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With a substantial background in financial leadership across diverse sectors, Khalid has held significant roles as CFO in leading Saudi Arabian corporations. Notably, he has been crucial in driving transformative initiatives aligned with Vision 2030, showcasing his strategic foresight. Khalid holds a Master's Degree in Professional Account, Accounting, and Finance from King Abdulaziz University, reflecting his strong academic foundation. His appointment as CFO underscores Folk Maritime's commitment to financial excellence and strategic leadership.

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Mohamed Badawy
Chief Operating Officer
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Mohamed Badawy
Chief Operating Officer

Mohamed Badawy is a seasoned maritime industry leader with over 24 years of experience specializing in regional and global maritime operations. He has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer at Folk Maritime. Mohamed's leadership at renowned shipping companies like Hapag-Lloyd and United Arab Shipping Company Ltd. further strengthens his credentials. Recognized as a fellow member of prestigious logistics and shipbroking institutes, he also has a strong academic foundation, including an Executive MBA from Hult Business School and executive education from London Business School.With his background as a Master Mariner and extensive experience in maritime operations, he is uniquely positioned to spearhead operational excellence at Folk.

Folk Maritime Contributes to Global Sustainability Goals

We aim to minimize our carbon footprint and implement sustainable solutions that mitigate the environmental impacts of our activity.

Leading Regional Liner And Feeder Operator Providing Flexible Solutions and Creating Value for Our Stakeholders

Complying with IMO regulations, we uphold high sustainability standards, incorporating innovation into product development, and fostering a workforce-centric approach.

Driving Change through Educational Programs for an Empowered Community

We nurture local talent and promote careers in the maritime industry, aligning with our commitment to CSR initiatives.