RAS TANURA
- Latitude: 26.6726 •
- Longitude: 50.1219 •
- Arabian Gulf •
- Port in Saudi Arabia
Address: Ras Tanura Eastern Province Saudi Arabia
Ras Tanura is one of the world's largest and most important oil ports, located on the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia along the Persian Gulf. It serves as a crucial hub for the export of Saudi crude oil and refined products. Here is a detailed description and specifications of the Ras Tanura marine port:
Location
- Coordinates: Approximately 26°38'N latitude and 50°10'E longitude.
- Proximity: Situated near the city of Dhahran and about 70 km north of Dammam, the capital of the Eastern Province.
Facilities and Infrastructure
- Oil Export Terminal: The facility primarily serves as an oil export terminal, operated by Saudi Aramco, the state-owned oil company.
- Berths: The port includes multiple deep-water berths capable of accommodating very large crude carriers (VLCCs) and ultra-large crude carriers (ULCCs).
- North Pier: Features several berths for loading crude oil.
- Sea Island: Situated offshore with multiple loading points designed to handle supertankers.
- Storage Capacity: The port includes extensive onshore tank farms for crude oil storage, with a capacity running into millions of barrels.
Specifications
- Draft: The harbor's draft is designed to accommodate the largest tankers with an ocean-going draft generally ranging from 22 to 25 meters.
- Loading Capacity: Ras Tanura has a significant loading capacity, handling millions of barrels per day, making it one of the busiest oil terminals globally.
- Refining Complex: Adjacent to the port is the Ras Tanura refinery, one of the largest refineries in the Middle East, which adds value to crude oil by producing refined products.
Operations
- Products Handled: The primary cargoes include crude oil, refined products, and natural gas liquids.
- Technology: The port utilizes advanced loading technology, including vapor recovery systems to minimize emissions during the loading process.
- Security: Given its strategic importance, the port is equipped with stringent security measures, including patrols and surveillance systems, to protect against potential threats.
Navigation and Access
- Pilotage: Compulsory for all incoming and outgoing vessels. Piloting services are provided by experienced harbor pilots.
- Tug Services: Available to assist tankers in berthing and unberthing maneuvers.
- Approach: The approach to the port is via well-marked sea lanes with navigational aids to ensure safe passage for vessels.
Environmental Considerations
- Spill Response: The port has comprehensive oil spill response plans and equipment to mitigate environmental impacts in the event of a spill.
- Compliance: Operates in compliance with international maritime environmental standards.
Economic Impact
- Strategic Importance: A key asset in the global oil supply chain, significantly contributing to Saudi Arabia's economy.
- Employment: Provides employment to thousands of individuals directly and indirectly through associated industries.
Future Developments
- Expansion Plans: Continuous upgrade and expansion plans to meet future demands, including potential increases in storage capacity and modernization of loading facilities.
Ras Tanura remains a linchpin in the global oil trade, owing to its extensive facilities, strategic location, and significant capacity for handling large volumes of oil and refined products.