JABAL AZ ZANNAH ANCH

• Latitude: 24.4319
• Longitude: 52.5141
• Arabian Gulf
• Anchorage in United Arab Emirates

Location: Jabal Az Zannah United Arab Emirates

Port Overview: Jabal Az-Zannah Anchorage, often referred to as Jebel Dhanna, is situated in the United Arab Emirates along the coast of the Arabian Gulf. This strategic maritime location primarily serves the petroleum industry, providing critical services for the loading and unloading of crude oil, petroleum products, and associated supplies. The port's infrastructural significance is accentuated by its proximity to the Adnoc Onshore's Al Dhannah Terminal.

Geographical Coordinates: Latitude: Approximately 24.2356° N Longitude: Approximately 52.6151° E

Key Features and Specifications:

1. Type of Anchorage:

   • It operates primarily as a lighterage area, where larger vessels can transfer cargoes to smaller ships or offshore platforms. This operation method is key for handling vessels that cannot dock directly at shore terminals due to draft restrictions or other logistical considerations.

2. Water Depth:

   • The anchorage area is characterized by adequate depths that can accommodate various vessel sizes. The typical depth ranges from 20 to 25 meters, making it suitable for large tankers, especially Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs).

3. Vessel Types:

   • The anchorage serves mainly oil tankers ranging from small coastal tankers to large VLCCs.
   • Support vessels such as tugboats, supply boats for offshore platforms, and occasionally bulk carriers depending on the operational requirements.

4. Port Facilities and Services:

   • The port and adjoining facilities are well-equipped with modern navigational aids like buoys and beacons.
   • Pilotage services are available and generally recommended for safe maneuvering of the vessels in the anchorage.
   • Oil spill response facilities are in place to address any environmental contingencies.
   • Transfers involving the Ship to Ship (STS) operations are also a common practice, facilitated by specialized service providers.

5. Navigational Guide:

   • Ships approaching the anchorage area must follow specific navigation routes as provided by port authorities to avoid underwater pipelines and other critical infrastructures.
   • Communication with the port control tower is essential for ensuring safe entry, anchoring, and operational coordination.

6. Security and Regulations:

   • The anchorage operates under stringent security measures in line with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
   • Vessels must comply with UAE maritime laws and adhere to port-specific regulations regarding pollution control, safe handling of hazardous cargoes, and operational safety standards.

7. Weather Considerations:

   • The region experiences typical Arabian Gulf weather conditions with high temperatures and high humidity, particularly prevalent during the summer months.
   • Seasonal Shamal winds can impact anchorage operations, requiring vessels to take precautionary measures against strong northwesterly winds.

Significance:

• Strategic Importance: Given the UAE’s position as a major oil exporter, Jabal Az-Zannah Anchorage plays a vital role in the logistics chain, enabling efficient oil exports to global markets.
• Economic Impact: It supports the overall economic infrastructure by facilitating and streamlining the distribution of petroleum and associated products efficiently.

In conclusion, Jabal Az-Zannah Anchorage is an essential hub in the UAE’s maritime operations, providing specialized services primarily catered to the petroleum sector with robust facilities to ensure safe and efficient handling of maritime operations.