Fujairah

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Ports and Maritime Transport

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Comprehensive Guide to Ports and Maritime Transport in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates

Fujairah, located on the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) along the Gulf of Oman, is a strategic hub for maritime transport and trade. Its ports play a critical role in global shipping, particularly for oil and gas, bunkering, and cargo handling. Below is a detailed guide to the ports and maritime transport in Fujairah, covering all relevant aspects for visitors, businesses, and maritime professionals.

1. Types of Ports in Fujairah

Fujairah is home to one major port and several smaller facilities that cater to different maritime needs:

a. Port of Fujairah

  • Overview: The Port of Fujairah is the UAE's only multi-purpose port located on the eastern seaboard, outside the Strait of Hormuz. It is one of the world's top bunkering hubs and a key player in global oil and gas logistics.
  • Primary Functions:
    • Oil and gas storage and export
    • Bunkering (fueling ships)
    • General cargo handling
    • Container shipping
    • Dry bulk cargo (e.g., aggregates, cement, and grains)
    • Offshore support services

b. Fujairah Offshore Anchorage Area

  • Overview: This is a designated offshore area for ship-to-ship transfers, bunkering, and other maritime services. It is one of the busiest anchorage zones globally.
  • Primary Functions:
    • Ship-to-ship (STS) cargo transfers
    • Bunkering and refueling
    • Maintenance and repairs
    • Crew changes and provisioning

c. Dibba Port

  • Overview: Located in the northern part of Fujairah, Dibba Port primarily handles fishing activities and small-scale cargo operations.
  • Primary Functions:
    • Fishing industry support
    • Small cargo shipments
    • Local trade

2. Facilities and Services Offered

a. Port of Fujairah

  • Oil and Gas Facilities:
    • Extensive oil storage terminals with a capacity exceeding 10 million cubic meters.
    • State-of-the-art pipelines for efficient loading and unloading.
  • Bunkering Services:
    • One of the largest bunkering hubs globally, offering high-quality marine fuels.
  • Cargo Handling:
    • Modern container terminals with advanced cranes and equipment.
    • Bulk cargo handling facilities for aggregates, cement, and other materials.
  • Logistics and Warehousing:
    • On-site warehousing and logistics support for import/export businesses.
  • Ship Repair and Maintenance:
    • Dry docks and floating docks for ship repairs and maintenance.
  • Other Services:
    • Crew changes, medical assistance, and ship supplies.

b. Fujairah Offshore Anchorage Area

  • Bunkering: High-quality marine fuel is available 24/7.
  • Ship-to-Ship Transfers: Efficient and safe transfer of oil, gas, and other cargo between vessels.
  • Maintenance: Minor repairs and inspections can be conducted offshore.
  • Crew Services: Crew changes, provisioning, and medical evacuations are facilitated.

c. Dibba Port

  • Fishing Support: Facilities for docking fishing vessels and processing seafood.
  • Small-Scale Cargo: Handling of local goods and small shipments.

3. Costs Associated with Using Fujairah Ports

Costs vary depending on the type of service and the size of the vessel. Below is a general breakdown:

a. Port of Fujairah

  • Bunkering: Prices depend on global oil rates and the type of fuel. As of 2023, marine fuel prices range from $600 to $800 per metric ton.
  • Anchorage Fees: Approximately $0.10 to $0.15 per gross tonnage (GT) per day.
  • Cargo Handling:
    • Container handling: $100 to $150 per TEU (Twenty-foot Equivalent Unit).
    • Bulk cargo: $5 to $10 per metric ton.
  • Storage: Warehousing fees vary based on the type and volume of goods.
  • Ship Repairs: Costs depend on the scope of work and vessel size.

b. Fujairah Offshore Anchorage Area

  • Anchorage Fees: Similar to the Port of Fujairah, around $0.10 to $0.15 per GT per day.
  • STS Transfers: Charges depend on the type and volume of cargo being transferred.

c. Dibba Port

  • Fishing Docking Fees: Minimal charges for local fishing vessels.
  • Cargo Handling: Costs are lower compared to the Port of Fujairah, typically negotiated on a case-by-case basis.

4. Procedures for Accessing or Utilizing the Ports

a. Vessel Registration and Documentation

  • All vessels must be registered with the UAE Federal Transport Authority (FTA) and provide the following:
    • Vessel registration documents
    • Crew details and certifications
    • Cargo manifest (if applicable)
    • Insurance and safety compliance certificates

b. Port Entry Procedures

  • Submit a pre-arrival notification at least 48 hours before arrival.
  • Coordinate with the port authority for berth allocation or anchorage.
  • Pay applicable port fees and charges.

c. Customs and Immigration

  • Cargo must be declared to UAE Customs, and all import/export regulations must be followed.
  • Crew members must have valid visas or transit permits for shore leave.

d. Bunkering and STS Transfers

  • Coordinate with licensed service providers approved by the Port of Fujairah.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

5. Local Site Considerations and Cultural Aspects

a. Strategic Location

  • Fujairah’s location outside the Strait of Hormuz makes it a safer and more accessible port for international shipping, especially during geopolitical tensions in the region.

b. Environmental Regulations

  • The UAE enforces strict environmental laws to prevent marine pollution. Ships must comply with MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships) standards.

c. Cultural Sensitivities

  • Fujairah is a conservative emirate with Islamic cultural norms. Visitors and crew members should dress modestly and respect local customs.
  • Alcohol consumption is restricted to licensed venues, and public intoxication is prohibited.

d. Weather and Navigation

  • The region experiences high temperatures, especially in summer (June to September), which can affect operations.
  • The Gulf of Oman is generally calm, but occasional rough seas may occur during the monsoon season.

e. Language

  • Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken in the maritime and business sectors.

6. Key Contacts and Resources

Conclusion

Fujairah’s ports are a vital part of the UAE’s maritime infrastructure, offering world-class facilities and services for oil and gas, cargo, and bunkering. Whether you are a business looking to utilize the port’s logistics capabilities or a visitor exploring the maritime industry, understanding the costs, procedures, and local considerations will ensure a smooth and efficient experience.