RAS MUSANDAM

• Latitude: 26.3658
• Longitude: 56.3605
• Arabian Gulf
• Port in Oman

Location: Ras Musandam Musandam Governorate Oman

Port Name: Ras Musandam Port (also known as Khasab Port)

Location:

• Geographical Coordinates: Latitude 26° 12'N, Longitude 56° 14'E
• Region: Musandam Governorate, Sultanate of Oman
• Proximity: Located in the northernmost part of Oman, on the Strait of Hormuz. It is near the city of Khasab.

Primary Functions:

1. Commercial Port: Handles cargo shipments including general cargo, livestock, and food supplies.
2. Tourism: Significant for cruise liners and tourist activities due to its picturesque landscapes and strategic position.
3. Ferry Services: Provides ferry links to mainland Oman, specifically to Muscat.
4. Maritime Security: Important for naval and maritime security operations in the region.

Port Specifications:

• Harbor Type: Natural harbor.
• Water Depth: Varies across different berths but generally suitable for medium-sized vessels.
  • Channel Depth: Approx. 8-12 meters.
  • Cargo Pier Depth: Approx. 7-10 meters.
  • Anchorage Depth: 10-20 meters.
• Berth Facilities:
  • Several berths to accommodate cargo, ferries, and passenger vessels.
  • Facilities to handle livestock and general cargo.
  • Cruise terminal for international passenger vessels.

Infrastructure:

• Cargo Handling Equipment: Available equipment includes cranes and conveyor belts primarily for livestock handling.
• Storage Facilities: Warehouses and open storage areas for various types of cargo.
• Passenger Terminal: Equipped to handle cruise passengers, with amenities to facilitate check-in and customs procedures.
• Ferry Terminal: Dedicated ferry terminal facilitating passenger and vehicle transport.
• Support Services: Includes bunkering, freshwater supply, and minor repair services.

Access:

• Road Connectivity: Linked to major roads heading towards the interior regions of Oman and the UAE.
• Air Connectivity: Khasab Airport provides regional air connectivity, enhancing the access to the port.

Strategic Importance:

• Geographical Position: Positioned on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil and gas shipments.
• Tourism: Attractive destination for cruise routes due to scenic fjords, diving, and marine life.
• Maritime Security: Plays a key role in monitoring and securing one of the world’s most crucial maritime chokepoints.

Port Management:

• Managed by the Ministry of Transport and Communications of Oman.
• Operated in conjunction with local authorities to ensure efficient operations and safety standards.

Future Development:

• Potential plans for expansions and enhancements to increase capacity and modernize facilities to keep up with growing tourism and cargo demands.

Regulations and Standards:

• Compliance with international maritime regulations and safety standards.
• Customs and immigration processes in place for cargo and passengers.

Overall, Ras Musandam (Khasab Port) is an essential maritime gateway in Oman, supporting both commercial and tourism sectors while playing a significant role in regional maritime security.