Jazan Port represents Saudi Arabia’s third-largest maritime facility, providing comprehensive bunkering service solutions to commercial vessels, offshore operators, and specialized carriers navigating the southern Red Sea. Located at approximately 16.9°N latitude and 42.55°E longitude near the strategic Bab Al Mandab Strait, Jazan Port offers bunker fuel delivery through established bunker supplier networks that connect to Saudi Arabia’s robust marine fuel infrastructure. As a critical bunkering service point in the Red Sea region, Jazan Port facilitates fuel procurement for vessels operating between Europe, the Far East, the Arabian Gulf, and East Africa.
Gulf-Bunkering provides marine fuel trading solutions at Jazan Port, connecting vessel operators with compliant fuel products through our knowledge of Saudi supply networks, regional logistics, and port coordination. Whether you’re managing container operations, bulk carriers, tanker fleets, or offshore support services, our team coordinates fuel procurement that aligns with your operational schedule and maintains quality standards across your Red Sea operations.
Port Overview and Bunkering Capabilities
Jazan Port operates as a multi-purpose deep-water facility combining container terminals, bulk cargo handling, petroleum infrastructure, and comprehensive vessel services within Saudi Arabia’s expanding southwestern maritime network. The facility provides modern berthing infrastructure designed to accommodate diverse vessel types, from mid-sized commercial vessels to large tankers and container ships up to 250,000 DWT.
Bunkering operations at Jazan Port leverage Saudi Arabia’s established marine fuel supply network, with delivery methods tailored to vessel size and operational requirements. The facility’s proximity to regional fuel distribution infrastructure enables efficient coordination of bunker deliveries through truck-to-ship and barge-to-ship methods.
Primary Bunkering Methods
- Truck-to-ship delivery: Available at commercial berths with road access
- Barge-to-ship transfer: Coordinated through regional bunkering operators serving Jazan waters
- Pre-arranged fuel supply: Scheduled deliveries aligned with vessel arrival and departure times
The port’s strategic Red Sea location provides sheltered waters and modern infrastructure, minimizing weather-related operational disruptions and enabling consistent fuel delivery schedules. Advanced facilities support efficient vessel turnaround, allowing bunkering concurrent with cargo operations, crew changes, and maintenance activities.
Vessel Types and Technical Specifications
Jazan Port serves a diverse range of vessels reflecting the facility’s multi-purpose design and strategic position within Saudi Arabia’s maritime network:
Accommodated Vessel Categories
- Container vessels: Modern container ships up to 225 meters length
- Bulk carriers: Dry bulk and specialized bulk cargo vessels
- Tankers: Petroleum and chemical tankers between 10,000 and 250,000 DWT
- General cargo vessels: Breakbulk and project cargo carriers
- Offshore support vessels: Platform supply and crew transfer boats
- Livestock carriers: Specialized vessels serving Africa-Saudi trade routes
- Government vessels: Coast guard and naval patrol craft
Technical Port Specifications
- Maximum draft: Approximately 16.5 meters at quayside; approach channel depth 17.5 to 20 meters
- Total berths: 12 berths with approximately 2,500 meters total quay length
- Vessel capacity: Accommodates vessels up to 250,000 DWT and 225 meters length
- Turning basin: 750 meters diameter for safe vessel maneuvering
- Container capacity: Around 500,000 TEU annually
- Cargo handling equipment: 4 mobile harbor cranes, 3 ship-to-shore unloaders, 11 rubber-tired gantry cranes
Bunkering Logistics Framework
- Minimum fuel delivery: Typically 20-100 metric tons depending on supplier and vessel requirements
- Delivery rate: 30-60 metric tons per hour via truck, higher rates via barge
- Advance scheduling: 24-48 hours notice recommended for optimal coordination
- Concurrent operations: Fuel delivery can be coordinated with cargo operations and other vessel services
The port’s modern design enables efficient logistics coordination, supporting vessel operators who require streamlined bunkering integrated with broader port services. The facility’s infrastructure accommodates both scheduled fuel deliveries and expedited arrangements for vessels with tight operational windows.
Marine Fuel Grades and Supply Infrastructure
Jazan Port’s fuel supply leverages Saudi Arabia’s position as a major global refining center, providing access to compliant marine fuel products across common specifications:
Available Marine Fuel Products
- Marine Gas Oil (MGO): ISO 8217 DMA/DMB grades for main engines and auxiliaries
- Marine Diesel Oil (MDO): ISO 8217 DMZ/DMX grades for medium-speed applications
- Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO): 0.50% sulphur maximum, globally compliant
- Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO 380): Standard residual fuel for compatible vessels
- High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO): Available for scrubber-equipped vessels
- Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO): 0.10% sulphur maximum for specialized requirements
- Marine lubricating oils: Cylinder oils and system lubricants across major brands
- Marine greases: Specialized lubricants for deck machinery and equipment
Supply Network Characteristics
- Regional connectivity: Access to Saudi Arabia’s established fuel distribution infrastructure
- Shore tank facilities: Regional storage maintained by licensed suppliers
- Quality verification: Third-party testing available through Saudi-based laboratories
- Delivery coordination: Scheduled through established bunkering operators serving Jazan
- Emergency supply capability: Access to expedited delivery for urgent requirements
Quality and Measurement Standards
All marine fuels meet ISO 8217 specifications with verified sulphur content, density, viscosity, and flash point parameters. Suppliers operating in Jazan maintain quality assurance protocols aligned with international maritime fuel standards and MARPOL environmental regulations.
Fuel procurement at Jazan Port benefits from Saudi Arabia’s competitive supply environment and proximity to major refining facilities. Vessels can coordinate fuel delivery that balances operational requirements with cost efficiency, leveraging regional market dynamics.
Regional Maritime Context and Connectivity
Jazan Port’s position within the Red Sea maritime network provides connectivity to key regional and international shipping routes:
Regional Trade Routes
- Red Sea networks: Connections to major Red Sea ports including Jeddah, Port Sudan, and regional terminals
- Suez Canal routes: Gateway access to Mediterranean and European destinations
- Arabian Gulf connections: Feeder services to Gulf ports and regional terminals
- East African routes: Direct connections to Djibouti, Mombasa, and East African destinations
- Asia-Europe corridors: Strategic position on major container and bulk shipping lanes
- Bab Al Mandab transit: Critical location near one of the world’s busiest maritime chokepoints
Strategic Geographic Position
- Approximately 16.9°N, 42.55°E on Saudi Arabia’s southern Red Sea coast
- Near the strategic Bab Al Mandab Strait connecting Red Sea and Gulf of Aden
- Gateway to Jazan Economic City and southwestern Saudi industrial zones
- Three approach channels enabling safe navigation with advanced GPS and radar systems
- Proximity to regional airports supporting crew changes and logistics
Emission Control Area Considerations
Jazan Port operates outside designated Emission Control Areas, allowing vessels to use 0.50% sulphur fuel oil in compliance with global MARPOL Annex VI requirements. However, the facility serves as a practical refueling point for vessels preparing for voyages to ECA-regulated waters.
Vessels can optimize fuel procurement by taking on ECA-compliant low-sulphur grades (0.10%) at Jazan Port before continuing to European, North American, or other regulated zones. This strategic positioning supports efficient fuel planning across different regulatory jurisdictions while leveraging Saudi Arabia’s competitive fuel pricing.
The port’s role within Saudi Arabia’s broader maritime ecosystem makes it particularly valuable for commercial vessels requiring reliable fuel supply at a strategic Red Sea location while maintaining access to quality fuel products and efficient delivery infrastructure.
Operational Considerations
Jazan Port benefits from the Red Sea’s generally favorable maritime conditions, with the facility’s sheltered harbor design providing protection from offshore weather patterns. The location experiences minimal swell impact throughout most of the year, enabling consistent operational capability.
Should You Hire a Harbor Pilot in Jazan Port
Hiring a harbor pilot is mandatory for international vessels operating at Jazan Port. Saudi maritime regulations require vessels to utilize certified harbor pilots for safe navigation and maneuvering within the port’s waters, ensuring operational safety and regulatory adherence.
Regulatory Requirements
Saudi Ports Authority mandates that international vessels must contract with licensed maritime agents and utilize pilotage services for safe entry and maneuvering within Jazan Port. Regulations specify that vessels above certain size thresholds must utilize certified harbor pilots to mitigate risks in the port’s approach channels and berthing areas.
Safety and Operational Benefits
Harbor pilots possess detailed local knowledge of tides, currents, navigational hazards, and port procedures, which are crucial for large vessels with deep drafts navigating Jazan’s approach channels and turning basin. Employing a harbor pilot ensures safe operations and streamlines coordination with harbor tugs and port authorities.
Industry Practice in Jazan
Harbor pilotage is an integral part of port service arrangements in Jazan, with services coordinated by the Saudi Ports Authority and authorized agencies. Four high-powered tugboats support vessel assistance during berthing and departure operations.
Year-Round Operational Capability
Jazan Port maintains consistent operational capability throughout the entire year with no seasonal closures or restricted operational windows. The Red Sea’s stable weather patterns and the port’s modern infrastructure support reliable bunkering operations across all seasons.
Heat Management Considerations
Summer operations in the Red Sea region require attention to:
- Fuel viscosity management: Elevated ambient temperatures affecting fuel handling
- Deck safety: Heat precautions for crew during bunkering operations
- Equipment cooling: Adequate ventilation and cooling for bunkering equipment
- Timing optimization: Early morning or evening operations may offer improved conditions
The port’s modern infrastructure includes climate-controlled facilities and efficient cargo handling systems that help mitigate heat impact during peak summer months, supporting safe and efficient operations year-round.
Gulf-Bunkering coordinates marine fuel trading at Jazan Port through established regional supplier networks, ensuring vessels receive compliant marine fuels with competitive pricing and delivery coordination that supports your operational requirements. Our trading expertise helps optimize fuel procurement across the Saudi Arabia region, providing reliable supply solutions for diverse vessel types and operational profiles.
For marine fuel trading coordination at Jazan Port, contact Gulf-Bunkering at contact@gulf-bunkering.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Bunkering at Jazan Port
What types of marine fuel are available at Jazan Port?
Jazan Port provides access to all major marine fuel grades including Marine Gas Oil (MGO), Marine Diesel Oil (MDO), Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) at 0.50% sulphur, Intermediate Fuel Oil (IFO 380), High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO), and Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) at 0.10% sulphur. All fuels meet ISO 8217 specifications with verified quality parameters. Marine lubricating oils and specialized greases are also available through regional suppliers.
How much advance notice is required for fuel delivery at Jazan Port?
It’s recommended to provide 24-48 hours advance notice for optimal coordination of bunker deliveries at Jazan Port. This scheduling window allows suppliers to arrange truck-to-ship or barge-to-ship delivery methods and coordinate with your vessel’s arrival time and other port services. Expedited arrangements can be made for vessels with urgent requirements or tight operational windows.
What is the minimum fuel delivery quantity at Jazan Port?
Minimum fuel delivery typically ranges from 20-100 metric tons depending on the specific supplier and vessel requirements. Delivery rates vary by method, with truck-to-ship transfers averaging 30-60 metric tons per hour and barge-to-ship operations offering higher rates for larger fuel quantities.
Is Jazan Port located within an Emission Control Area?
No, Jazan Port operates outside designated Emission Control Areas, allowing vessels to use 0.50% sulphur fuel oil in compliance with global MARPOL Annex VI requirements. However, the facility serves as an excellent refueling point for vessels preparing for voyages to ECA-regulated waters in Europe, North America, or other regulated zones, where they can take on compliant 0.10% sulphur grades before departure.
Is harbor pilotage required at Jazan Port?
Yes, hiring a harbor pilot is mandatory for international vessels operating at Jazan Port. Saudi Ports Authority regulations require vessels to utilize certified harbor pilots for safe navigation and maneuvering within the port’s waters. Harbor pilots provide essential local knowledge of approach channels, turning basin operations, and port procedures, ensuring safe operations and regulatory adherence.
What vessel types can be accommodated at Jazan Port?
Jazan Port accommodates a diverse range of vessels including container ships up to 225 meters, bulk carriers, tankers between 10,000 and 250,000 DWT, general cargo vessels, offshore support vessels, livestock carriers, and government patrol craft. The facility offers maximum drafts of approximately 16.5 meters at quayside with approach channel depths of 17.5 to 20 meters, and features 12 berths with approximately 2,500 meters total quay length.
Can bunkering operations be conducted year-round at Jazan Port?
Yes, Jazan Port maintains consistent operational capability throughout the entire year with no seasonal closures or restricted operational windows. The facility’s sheltered Red Sea location provides protected waters that minimize weather-related disruptions. While summer months bring elevated temperatures requiring heat management considerations, the port’s modern infrastructure supports safe year-round bunkering operations.
What bunkering delivery methods are available at Jazan Port?
Jazan Port offers both truck-to-ship delivery at commercial berths with road access, and barge-to-ship transfer coordinated through regional bunkering operators. Fuel deliveries can be scheduled to align with vessel arrival and departure times, and bunkering operations can be conducted concurrently with cargo operations, crew changes, and maintenance activities for efficient turnaround.