AZ ZUWAYTINAH

• Latitude: 30.899
• Longitude: 20.0723
• East Mediterranean
• Port in Libya

Location: Libya

AZ ZUWAYTINAH (Zwitenah/Zueitina) Marine Port, Libya: Overview and Specifications

The Az Zuwaytinah Marine Port, also known as Zueitina or Zwitenah, is a key maritime oil terminal located in the northeastern region of Libya along the Mediterranean coast. The port is primarily used for the export of crude oil and petroleum products, playing a vital role in Libya's oil industry. Below are the detailed descriptions and specifications of the port:

General Information

• Location: Northeastern Libya, along the Mediterranean coast.
• Coordinates: Approximately 30°57'N latitude and 20°07'E longitude.
• Usage: Predominantly oil export terminal.
• Operator: Zueitina Oil Company, a subsidiary of the state-owned National Oil Corporation (NOC).

Port Infrastructure

• Berths: The port includes several berths specifically designed for the loading of crude oil and petroleum products onto tankers.
• Loading Facilities: Modernized loading arms and pipelines to efficiently transfer hydrocarbons from onshore storage to the vessels.
• Storage: Significant onshore storage facilities to accommodate large volumes of crude oil and derivatives.
• Draft Limit: The port can accommodate vessels with drafts up to around 13.7 meters (45 feet).

Operational Capabilities

• Tanker Handling Capacity: Can handle large crude carriers (VLCCs) and smaller tankers depending on berth availability.
• Annual Throughput: The port handles millions of barrels of crude oil annually, with variations depending on national production and export capacities.
• Safety and Environmental Standards: The port adheres to international safety protocols and environmental regulations, including measures for oil spill response and control.

Navigation

• Access Channels: Clear navigational channels maintained for safe passage of vessels, equipped with necessary aids to navigation (AtoN) such as buoys and lights.
• Pilotage: Compulsory pilotage services provided for all incoming and outgoing vessels to ensure safe navigation through the port's waters.
• Tug Assist: Availability of tugs for berthing and unberthing operations to assist with maneuvering large tankers.

Support Services

• Maintenance and Repairs: Facilities for routine maintenance and minor repairs.
• Supply and Bunkering: Provisions available for supply of essential ship stores and bunkering.
• Customs and Immigration: On-site services for clearing customs and immigration formalities for crew members and shipping agents.

Security Measures

• ISPS Compliance: The port complies with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code for maintaining high standards of security.
• 24/7 Surveillance: Continuous security monitoring through closed-circuit television (CCTV) and security patrols.

Key Importance

• Strategic Oil Export Hub: Serves as a critical point for Libya's oil export, contributing significantly to the national economy.
• Regional Employment: Provides jobs and stimulates economic activities in the northeastern region of Libya.

This port plays a critical role in the logistics chain of the global oil market, standing as a resilient hub amidst the geopolitical and economic dynamics of the region.