Jeddah Islamic Port stands as Saudi Arabia’s largest and most strategically positioned maritime facility, serving as the primary gateway for bunker fuel supply along the Red Sea coast. Handling approximately 75% of the nation’s imports and exports, Jeddah Islamic Port provides comprehensive bunkering service solutions to commercial vessels, container ships, and offshore support units operating throughout the Red Sea region. As Saudi Arabia’s premier bunker supplier hub, the port offers modern marine fuel infrastructure that connects vessels to the Kingdom’s expanding energy sector and regional supply networks.
Gulf-Bunkering provides marine fuel trading solutions at Jeddah Islamic Port, connecting vessel operators with compliant fuel products through our knowledge of Saudi Arabia’s supply networks, regional logistics, and port coordination. Whether you’re managing commercial fleet operations, container vessel schedules, or offshore support services, our team coordinates fuel procurement that aligns with your operational requirements and maintains quality standards across your Red Sea operations.
Port Overview and Bunkering Infrastructure
Jeddah Islamic Port operates as Saudi Arabia’s most significant maritime facility, featuring 62 specialized berths designed to accommodate diverse vessel types across container operations, general cargo handling, and livestock terminals. The port’s extensive infrastructure supports high-volume commercial traffic while maintaining dedicated facilities for efficient bunker fuel delivery operations.
The port’s bunkering capabilities have been significantly enhanced through recent infrastructure developments, including a state-of-the-art floating storage unit with 113,000 cubic meters capacity. This advanced storage facility enables efficient bulk fuel deliveries, blending operations, and streamlined loading for bunker barges serving vessels throughout the Red Sea region.
Primary Bunkering Methods
- Barge-to-ship delivery: Primary method utilizing dedicated bunker barges operating from the floating storage unit
- Truck-to-ship transfer: Available at designated berths with road access for smaller fuel quantities
- Pipeline delivery: Direct fuel transfer at specific terminals for larger commercial vessels
- Pre-arranged fuel supply: Scheduled deliveries coordinated with vessel arrival and departure times
The port’s strategic Red Sea location provides sheltered waters and modern berthing infrastructure that enables year-round bunkering operations with minimal weather-related disruptions. The facility’s operational efficiency supports concurrent bunkering alongside cargo operations, crew changes, and vessel maintenance activities.
Marine Fuel Products and Supply Network
Jeddah Islamic Port’s fuel supply infrastructure leverages Saudi Arabia’s position as a global energy leader, providing access to comprehensive marine fuel products across all major specifications. The port’s floating storage unit maintains substantial inventories of Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO), and Marine Gas Oil (MGO), ensuring reliable availability for vessels operating diverse engine configurations.
Available Marine Fuel Grades
- Marine Gas Oil (MGO) – ISO 8217 DMA/DMB grades for main engines and auxiliary systems
- Marine Diesel Oil (MDO) – ISO 8217 DMZ/DMX grades for medium-speed diesel applications
- Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) – 0.50% sulphur maximum, globally compliant residual fuel
- High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) – Available for vessels operating outside emission control areas
- Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) – 0.10% sulphur maximum for ECA preparation
- Marine lubricating oils – Cylinder oils and system lubricants across major brands
- Marine greases – Specialized lubricants for deck machinery and equipment
Supply Infrastructure Characteristics
- Floating storage capacity: 113,000 cubic meters dedicated marine fuel storage
- Regional connectivity: Direct access to Saudi Arabia’s refining and distribution infrastructure
- Blending capabilities: On-site fuel blending operations for customized specifications
- Quality verification: Third-party testing available through regional laboratories
- Delivery coordination: Scheduled through licensed bunkering operators serving Jeddah
- Emergency supply capability: Expedited delivery arrangements for urgent requirements
The port’s advanced storage and blending infrastructure supports efficient fuel delivery operations with competitive delivery rates. Vessels benefit from Saudi Arabia’s strategic position in global energy markets, enabling cost-effective fuel procurement while maintaining strict quality standards aligned with ISO 8217 specifications.
Vessel Types and Technical Specifications
Jeddah Islamic Port accommodates the full spectrum of commercial maritime traffic, from ultra-large container vessels to specialized cargo carriers and offshore support units. The port’s 62 berths provide flexible berthing options across different vessel categories and operational requirements.
Accommodated Vessel Categories
- Ultra-large container vessels: Post-Panamax and New Panamax container ships
- General cargo vessels: Bulk carriers, multipurpose cargo ships, and project cargo vessels
- Livestock carriers: Specialized vessels with dedicated terminal facilities
- Ro-Ro vessels: Roll-on/roll-off cargo ships and vehicle carriers
- Offshore support vessels: Platform supply vessels and crew transfer boats
- Tankers: Product tankers and chemical carriers
- Government vessels: Naval ships and coast guard patrol craft
Technical Port Specifications
- Maximum draft: Varies by berth, with deep-water berths accommodating vessels up to 16 meters
- Total berth capacity: 62 specialized berths across different terminals
- Container terminal capacity: Modern facilities handling the largest container vessels
- Cargo handling: Specialized equipment for diverse cargo types
- Vessel handling: Advanced mooring systems and fendering infrastructure
Bunkering Logistics Framework
- Minimum fuel delivery: Typically 50-100 metric tons depending on delivery method and vessel requirements
- Delivery rate: 100-300 metric tons per hour via barge, lower rates via truck
- Advance scheduling: 48-72 hours notice recommended for optimal coordination
- Concurrent operations: Fuel delivery coordinated with cargo operations and other vessel services
- Operational efficiency: Modern infrastructure supporting rapid vessel turnaround
The port’s comprehensive infrastructure enables efficient logistics coordination for vessels requiring streamlined bunkering integrated with cargo operations. The facility’s scale and modern equipment support both scheduled fuel deliveries and expedited arrangements for vessels with tight operational schedules.
Strategic Position and Maritime Connectivity
Jeddah Islamic Port’s location on the Red Sea coast positions it as a critical refueling point for vessels navigating between the Mediterranean, Indian Ocean, and Arabian Gulf regions. The port serves as the primary maritime gateway to Saudi Arabia’s western provinces and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, handling significant pilgrim traffic alongside commercial cargo operations.
Regional Trade Routes
- Suez Canal connections: Direct access to Europe-Asia shipping corridors via the Red Sea
- Arabian Gulf networks: Gateway routes connecting Red Sea traffic to Gulf ports
- East African trade: Primary hub for Saudi Arabia’s trade with East African nations
- Indian Ocean routes: Strategic position for vessels traveling between Asia and Middle East
- Mediterranean connections: Northern Red Sea access to Suez Canal and Mediterranean markets
Geographic Advantages
- Proximity to King Abdulaziz International Airport for crew changes and logistics support
- Direct access to Saudi Arabia’s western industrial zones and manufacturing centers
- Gateway position serving Mecca, Medina, and western Saudi population centers
- Strategic Red Sea location minimizing deviation for vessels on major trade routes
- Connection to Saudi Arabia’s expanding rail and road infrastructure networks
The port’s role as Saudi Arabia’s primary Red Sea facility makes it essential for vessels requiring reliable fuel supply while serving the Kingdom’s import/export requirements or transiting between major maritime regions.
Regulatory Environment and Port Procedures
Jeddah Islamic Port operates under Saudi Arabian maritime regulations with strict security and operational protocols. Vessels calling at the port must comply with international maritime standards alongside Kingdom-specific requirements.
Arrival and Communication Procedures
- Estimated Time of Arrival notices required 48 hours and 24 hours prior to arrival
- VHF communication with Jeddah Port Control on Channel 12 before entry
- Coordination with tug boat “Badr” on Channel 13 for berthing operations
- Anchorage Area “E” located approximately 3.5 miles from Qaham Beacon
- No pilot required if anchoring outside harbor limits
Security Requirements
- International Ship Security Certificate details must be provided in advance
- Security level declarations required for current port and previous 10 ports of call
- Restricted area designation requiring proper identification and permission
- Vessels with stowaways not accepted for bunker calls under local agency arrangements
Emission Control Area Considerations
Jeddah Islamic 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 strategic refueling point for vessels preparing for voyages to ECA-regulated waters in European or North American zones.
Vessels can optimize fuel procurement by taking on both standard VLSFO and ECA-compliant LSMGO at Jeddah, supporting efficient fuel planning across different regulatory jurisdictions while leveraging Saudi Arabia’s competitive fuel pricing and reliable supply infrastructure.
Operational Conditions
Jeddah Islamic Port maintains year-round operational capability with consistent service levels across all seasons. The Red Sea’s generally favorable maritime conditions support reliable bunkering operations throughout the calendar year.
Year-Round Capability
- Consistent operational access: No seasonal closures or restricted operational windows
- Protected harbor waters: Modern breakwater infrastructure minimizing weather impact
- Reliable delivery schedules: Advanced infrastructure supporting predictable fuel delivery timing
- Climate considerations: Hot, arid climate with minimal precipitation affecting operations
Practical Considerations
- Summer heat management: Elevated temperatures requiring appropriate fuel handling procedures
- Visibility factors: Occasional dust events associated with regional weather patterns
- Optimal operation timing: Early morning or evening operations may offer improved conditions during peak summer
- Modern navigation aids: Advanced port management systems maintaining safe operations
The port’s advanced infrastructure and Saudi Arabia’s investment in maritime facilities ensure efficient operations regardless of seasonal variations, supporting vessels with tight schedules and precise operational requirements.
Gulf-Bunkering coordinates marine fuel trading at Jeddah Islamic Port through established Saudi Arabian 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 Red Sea region, providing reliable supply solutions for diverse vessel types and operational profiles.
For marine fuel trading coordination at Jeddah Islamic Port, contact Gulf-Bunkering at contact@gulf-bunkering.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Bunkering at Jeddah Islamic Port
What types of marine fuel are available at Jeddah Islamic Port?
Jeddah Islamic Port provides access to all major marine fuel grades including Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO), High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO), and Marine Gas Oil (MGO). The port’s floating storage unit with 113,000 cubic meters capacity maintains substantial inventories across these fuel types. Marine Diesel Oil (MDO), Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) at 0.10% sulphur for ECA preparation, and marine lubricating oils are also available through regional suppliers. All fuels meet ISO 8217 specifications with verified quality parameters.
How much advance notice is required for fuel delivery at Jeddah Islamic Port?
Vessels should provide 48-72 hours advance notice for optimal coordination of bunker deliveries at Jeddah Islamic Port. This scheduling window allows suppliers to arrange barge-to-ship or truck-to-ship delivery methods and coordinate with your vessel’s arrival time. Vessels must send Estimated Time of Arrival notices 48 hours and 24 hours prior to arrival, specifying readiness to receive nominated bunker grades and quantities. Expedited arrangements can be made for vessels with urgent requirements.
What is the minimum fuel delivery quantity at Jeddah Islamic Port?
Minimum fuel delivery typically ranges from 50-100 metric tons depending on delivery method and vessel requirements. Delivery rates vary by method, with barge-to-ship transfers averaging 100-300 metric tons per hour and truck-to-ship operations offering lower rates for smaller fuel quantities. The port’s modern floating storage unit supports efficient bulk deliveries for larger vessels requiring substantial fuel quantities.
Is Jeddah Islamic Port located within an Emission Control Area?
No, Jeddah Islamic 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 strategic refueling point for vessels preparing for voyages to ECA-regulated waters in Europe or North America, where they can take on compliant 0.10% sulphur grades before departure while leveraging Saudi Arabia’s competitive fuel pricing.
What are the security requirements for vessels calling at Jeddah Islamic Port?
Vessels must provide International Ship Security Certificate details and security level declarations for the current port and previous 10 ports of call before arriving at Jeddah Islamic Port. The port is a restricted area requiring proper identification and permission before approaching. Vessels must communicate with Jeddah Port Control on VHF Channel 12 and coordinate with tug boat “Badr” on Channel 13. Ships with stowaways are not accepted for bunker calls under local agency arrangements.
What vessel types can be accommodated at Jeddah Islamic Port?
Jeddah Islamic Port accommodates the full spectrum of commercial maritime traffic including ultra-large container vessels, Post-Panamax and New Panamax container ships, general cargo vessels, bulk carriers, livestock carriers, Ro-Ro vessels, product tankers, offshore support vessels, and government naval ships. The port’s 62 specialized berths provide flexible berthing options with maximum drafts up to 16 meters at deep-water berths, supporting vessels across all major commercial categories.
Can bunkering operations be conducted year-round at Jeddah Islamic Port?
Yes, Jeddah Islamic Port maintains consistent operational capability throughout the entire year with no seasonal closures or restricted operational windows. The port’s protected harbor waters and modern breakwater infrastructure minimize weather impact, enabling reliable bunkering operations regardless of seasonal variations. The Red Sea’s generally favorable maritime conditions support predictable fuel delivery timing and efficient operations year-round, though summer heat management considerations apply during peak temperature periods.
What bunkering delivery methods are available at Jeddah Islamic Port?
Jeddah Islamic Port offers multiple bunkering delivery methods including barge-to-ship delivery as the primary method utilizing dedicated bunker barges operating from the floating storage unit, truck-to-ship transfer at designated berths with road access for smaller fuel quantities, and pipeline delivery for direct fuel transfer at specific terminals serving larger commercial vessels. Fuel deliveries can be scheduled to align with vessel arrival and departure times, with concurrent bunkering operations possible alongside cargo handling, crew changes, and vessel maintenance activities.