DAKHLA

• Latitude: 23.6775
•
• Longitude: -15.933
•
• West Africa
•
• Port in Morocco

Address: Dakhla Dakhla-Oued Ed Dahab Morocco

Phone number: +212-528-89-10-00

Web-site: http://www.anp.org.ma/en/Port/Jours/Port-de-Dakhla

Marine Port Description and Specification: Dakhla, Morocco

Overview

Dakhla is a key port located in the southwestern part of Morocco, on the Atlantic Coast. It is situated in the Dakhla-Oued Ed-Dahab region, within the disputed territory of Western Sahara. Though relatively less busy compared to major Moroccan ports like Casablanca and Tangier, Dakhla serves an essential role in regional trade, fishing, and tourism.

Geographical Coordinates

• Latitude: 23.684775° N
• Longitude: 15.957026° W

Port Specifications

1. Type of Port

   • Coastal natural port

2. Handling Capacity

   • Primarily focused on fishing activities
   • Handles general cargo and some level of container traffic

3. Infrastructure

   • Quay Length: Approximately 690 meters
   • Berths: Multiple berths for fishing vessels and cargo ships
   • Depth: Ranges from about 7 meters to 12 meters alongside the quays
   • Storage Facilities: Includes open storage and limited warehousing

4. Facilities and Services

   • Fishing Facilities: Equipped with cold storage, fish processing units, and ice production plants
   • Cargo Handling: Cranes and forklifts available for loading and unloading operations
   • Fueling: Bunkering services available for vessels
   • Repairs: Basic ship repair facilities, including slipway and small dry docks

5. Navigation and Access

   • Pilotage: Mandatory for all foreign vessels
   • Tugboats: Available for assisting in maneuvering larger vessels
   • Anchorage: Good anchoring grounds outside the harbor
   • Navigation Aids: Modern beacon and lighthouse systems for night-time and poor weather navigation

6. Security

   • The port adheres to international ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) standards
   • The presence of customs and border controls ensures regulated and secure movement of goods

Economic Significance

• Fishing Industry: Dakhla is one of the most vital fishing hubs in Morocco, rich in marine resources. The port sustains a significant part of the local economy through its vibrant fishing activities.
• Trade: Increasing interest in boosting trade through this port is observed, especially focused on exports such as seafood, phosphates, and agricultural products.
• Tourism: The city of Dakhla has been increasingly promoting tourism, especially aimed at water sports enthusiasts and eco-tourism, given its favorable wind conditions and natural beauty.

Development and Future Prospects

• The Moroccan government has been focusing on developing Dakhla into a more comprehensive port by investing in infrastructure upgrades and improving facilities.
• There are plans to expand both the storage and cargo handling capabilities to attract more international trade.

Conclusion

The Dakhla port, though relatively smaller, plays a significant role in the local and regional economy. Its focus on the fishing industry, combined with efforts to upgrade its facilities, positions it as an emerging port with potential for growth in trade and tourism sectors.