Jubail Commercial Port represents one of Saudi Arabia’s most strategically important maritime facilities, serving as a critical bunker supplier hub for vessels operating along the Arabian Gulf’s eastern coast. Located in the Eastern Province approximately 80 kilometers north of Dammam, Jubail Commercial Port provides comprehensive bunkering service solutions to commercial vessels, tankers, and offshore support units calling at this major industrial gateway. As a premier bunker fuel supply point supporting Jubail Industrial City—one of the world’s largest petrochemical complexes—the port facilitates reliable marine fuel procurement for vessels navigating regional and international trade routes.
Gulf-Bunkering provides marine fuel trading solutions at Jubail Commercial Port, connecting vessel operators with compliant fuel products through our knowledge of Saudi Arabian supply networks, regional logistics, and port coordination. Whether you’re managing commercial fleet operations, tanker schedules, or offshore support services, our team coordinates fuel procurement that aligns with your operational requirements and maintains quality standards across your Saudi Arabian operations.
Port Overview and Bunkering Capabilities
Jubail Commercial Port operates as a large-scale industrial and commercial maritime facility established in 1974 to support Saudi Arabia’s expanding petrochemical and industrial sectors. The port functions 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing continuous operational capability for vessels requiring bunker fuel and comprehensive port services.
The facility features extensive infrastructure designed to accommodate diverse vessel types, from general cargo carriers and container vessels to very large crude carriers and ultra-large crude carriers. With channel depths maintained at 16-18 meters and multiple specialized terminals, Jubail Commercial Port handles petrochemical products, bulk cargo, containers, and general cargo while supporting efficient bunkering operations.
Bunkering operations at Jubail Commercial Port leverage Saudi Arabia’s position as a major regional refining center, with delivery methods coordinated through established local supply networks. The port’s strategic location adjacent to Jubail Industrial City enables efficient fuel distribution infrastructure supporting vessels with varying operational schedules and fuel requirements.
Primary Bunkering Methods
- Bunker barge delivery: Vessel-to-ship transfer coordinated through regional bunkering operators
- Tanker-to-ship transfer: Direct fuel delivery from bunker tankers serving the port
- Pre-arranged fuel supply: Scheduled deliveries aligned with vessel nomination and arrival times
- Concurrent operations: Bunkering coordinated with cargo operations and other vessel services
The port’s sheltered location on the Arabian Gulf provides protected waters year-round, enabling consistent fuel delivery schedules with minimal weather-related disruptions. Modern infrastructure supports efficient vessel turnaround, allowing bunkering operations to proceed alongside cargo handling, crew changes, and maintenance activities.
Vessel Types and Technical Specifications
Jubail Commercial Port serves a diverse range of vessels reflecting the facility’s role as a major industrial and commercial maritime gateway:
Accommodated Vessel Categories
- Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC): Ultra-large tankers serving the petrochemical sector
- Ultra Large Crude Carriers (ULCC): Largest class tankers for petroleum product transport
- Container vessels: Modern container ships serving regional and international routes
- Bulk carriers: Dry bulk vessels transporting industrial materials and commodities
- General cargo vessels: Multi-purpose ships handling diverse cargo types
- Offshore support vessels: Platform supply and crew transfer boats serving oil and gas operations
- Petrochemical tankers: Specialized vessels for chemical product transport
- Commercial tankers: Product tankers serving regional distribution networks
Technical Port Specifications
- Maximum draft: 16-18 meters at main channels and berths
- Total berth capacity: 16-34 berths across specialized terminals
- Container terminal: 135,000 m² terminal area with 100,000 m² container storage yard
- Warehousing capacity: 105,000 m² covered storage across 12 warehouses
- Open storage: 1,350,000 m² total open yard capacity for diverse cargo types
- Vessel handling: Advanced mooring infrastructure with Voith Schneider propulsion tugs
- Pilotage: Compulsory for vessels over 150 GRT with radar-guided approach channels
Bunkering Logistics Framework
- Minimum fuel delivery: Typically varies by supplier and vessel requirements
- Delivery coordination: Vessel nomination and advance notice recommended for optimal scheduling
- Fuel transfer rates: Determined by delivery method and bunker vessel capacity
- Quality verification: Fuel testing available through regional laboratories
- Operational flexibility: 24/7 bunkering capability supporting tight vessel schedules
The port’s comprehensive infrastructure enables efficient logistics coordination, supporting vessel operators who require streamlined bunkering integrated with broader port services. The facility’s capabilities accommodate both scheduled fuel deliveries and arrangements for vessels with specific operational windows.
Marine Fuel Grades and Supply Infrastructure
Jubail Commercial 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 auxiliary systems, premium distillate fuel with low sulphur content suitable for modern vessel engines
- Intermediate Fuel Oil 380 (IFO 380): Medium-viscosity residual fuel for larger commercial vessels, requiring heating before use and historically common for conventional propulsion systems
- Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO): 0.50% sulphur maximum, globally compliant fuel meeting IMO 2020 requirements for vessels operating outside Emission Control Areas
- Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO): 0.10% sulphur maximum for vessels preparing for ECA-regulated waters or requiring premium distillate grades
- 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 serving the Eastern Province
- Local supply base: Bunker fuel availability through appointed agents and established regional suppliers
- Strategic location: Proximity to major refining facilities supporting competitive fuel pricing
- Quality assurance: Fuel products meeting ISO 8217 specifications with verified parameters
- Delivery coordination: Scheduled through established bunkering operators serving Jubail waters
- Freshwater supply: Available on all operational berths for concurrent vessel services
Quality and Measurement Standards
All marine fuels meet ISO 8217 specifications with verified sulphur content, density, viscosity, and flash point parameters. Saudi Arabian regulations mandate the use of fuels with maximum 0.5% sulphur content in line with global MARPOL Annex VI standards and IMO 2020 requirements.
Fuel procurement at Jubail Commercial 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 and the port’s strategic position within the Kingdom’s industrial infrastructure.
Regional Maritime Context and Connectivity
Jubail Commercial Port’s position within Saudi Arabia’s maritime network provides connectivity to key regional and international shipping routes:
Regional Trade Routes
- Arabian Gulf networks: Connections to major Gulf ports including Dammam, Ras Tanura, and regional terminals
- GCC feeder services: Regional cargo and petroleum product services throughout Gulf Cooperation Council nations
- Red Sea corridors: Access routes through Bab el-Mandeb strait toward Suez Canal and Mediterranean markets
- Indian Ocean routes: Gateway connections to Indian Subcontinent and East African destinations
- Southeast Asian connections: Long-haul routes to Singapore, Malaysia, and Far East ports
- European trade lanes: Petroleum product and petrochemical exports to European markets
Strategic Geographic Position
- Approximately 80 kilometers north of Dammam, Saudi Arabia’s primary eastern port
- Direct access to Arabian Gulf shipping lanes serving regional petroleum trade
- Adjacent to Jubail Industrial City, one of the world’s largest petrochemical complexes
- Connected to Saudi Arabia’s expanding maritime infrastructure network
- Gateway position supporting the Kingdom’s industrial and export sectors
- Proximity to major offshore oil and gas production facilities
Emission Control Area Considerations
Jubail Commercial 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 at Jubail Commercial 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 and reliable supply infrastructure.
The port’s role within Saudi Arabia’s broader maritime ecosystem makes it particularly valuable for commercial vessels, tankers, and offshore support units requiring reliable bunker fuel supply within a major industrial port environment while maintaining access to verified fuel quality and established delivery infrastructure.
Operational Considerations
Jubail Commercial Port benefits from the Arabian Gulf’s generally favorable maritime conditions, with the facility’s infrastructure designed to support year-round operations. The port maintains continuous operational capability throughout the entire year with no seasonal closures or restricted operational windows.
Harbor Pilotage Requirements
Harbor pilotage is compulsory for vessels over 150 GRT calling at Jubail Commercial Port. Saudi Arabian maritime regulations require vessels to utilize certified harbor pilots for safe navigation and maneuvering within the port’s waters.
Certified harbor pilots provide essential local knowledge of approach channels, berth configurations, tidal conditions, and port procedures. The port’s radar coverage on approach channels and vessel traffic management systems support safe navigation, while pilotage services ensure efficient berthing operations and coordination with tug assistance.
Employing harbor pilots reduces operational risks, ensures regulatory compliance, and streamlines coordination with port authorities, linesmen, and bunker delivery vessels during fuel transfer operations.
Year-Round Operational Capability
Jubail Commercial Port maintains 24/7 operations throughout the year, supporting vessels with varying schedules and operational requirements. The Arabian Gulf’s climate provides generally stable maritime conditions, with the port’s infrastructure designed to accommodate operations during all seasons.
Weather and Visibility Considerations
The port’s location experiences:
- Stable maritime conditions: Generally favorable weather patterns supporting consistent operations
- Seasonal variations: Temperature fluctuations between winter and summer months
- Visibility management: Modern navigation aids and radar systems supporting safe operations
- Heat considerations: Summer operations requiring attention to fuel handling and crew safety
Operational Support Services
The port provides comprehensive support services enhancing bunkering efficiency:
- Towing services: Voith Schneider propulsion tugs for vessel maneuvering during bunkering
- Marine rescue: Emergency response capabilities and spill control systems
- Vessel traffic management: Radar systems and communication infrastructure supporting safe operations
- Diving and underwater services: Buoy installation and underwater works supporting port operations
- Ship repair facilities: Dry docking for workboats up to 500 tons
Gulf-Bunkering coordinates marine fuel trading at Jubail Commercial 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 Arabian region, providing reliable supply solutions for diverse vessel types and operational profiles.
For marine fuel trading coordination at Jubail Commercial Port, contact Gulf-Bunkering at contact@gulf-bunkering.com
Frequently Asked Questions About Bunkering at Jubail Commercial Port
What types of marine fuel are available at Jubail Commercial Port?
Jubail Commercial Port provides access to major marine fuel grades including Marine Gas Oil (MGO), Intermediate Fuel Oil 380 (IFO 380), Very Low Sulphur Fuel Oil (VLSFO) at 0.50% sulphur, and Low Sulphur Marine Gas Oil (LSMGO) at 0.10% sulphur for vessels preparing for ECA-regulated waters. All fuels meet ISO 8217 specifications with verified quality parameters. Marine lubricating oils and specialized greases are also available through regional suppliers.
How are bunker deliveries coordinated at Jubail Commercial Port?
Bunker deliveries are coordinated through vessel nomination and advance notice to established suppliers serving the port. Delivery methods include bunker barge transfer and tanker-to-ship operations, with scheduling arranged to align with vessel arrival times and cargo operations. The port’s 24/7 operational capability supports flexible delivery timing for vessels with varying schedules.
Is Jubail Commercial Port located within an Emission Control Area?
No, Jubail Commercial 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, where they can take on compliant 0.10% sulphur grades before departure to European, North American, or other regulated zones.
What vessel types can be accommodated at Jubail Commercial Port?
Jubail Commercial Port accommodates a diverse range of vessels including Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC), Ultra Large Crude Carriers (ULCC), container vessels, bulk carriers, general cargo ships, offshore support vessels, petrochemical tankers, and commercial tankers. The port maintains channel depths of 16-18 meters and features 16-34 berths across specialized terminals capable of handling vessels with varying draft requirements.
Is harbor pilotage required at Jubail Commercial Port?
Yes, harbor pilotage is compulsory for vessels over 150 GRT calling at Jubail Commercial Port. Saudi Arabian maritime regulations require certified harbor pilots for safe navigation through approach channels and maneuvering within port waters. Pilotage services are coordinated with towing assistance using Voith Schneider propulsion tugs to ensure safe berthing operations.
Can bunkering operations be conducted year-round at Jubail Commercial Port?
Yes, Jubail Commercial Port maintains 24-hour operations, 365 days a year, with no seasonal closures or restricted operational windows. The port’s infrastructure and Arabian Gulf location support consistent bunkering capability throughout the entire year, enabling reliable fuel delivery for vessels with varying operational schedules.
What support services are available during bunkering operations?
Jubail Commercial Port provides comprehensive support services including compulsory pilotage for vessels over 150 GRT, towing services with specialized tugs, freshwater supply on all operational berths, vessel traffic management systems, radar coverage on approach channels, marine rescue capabilities, and spill control systems. These services can be coordinated concurrently with bunkering operations to optimize vessel turnaround efficiency.
What is the strategic advantage of bunkering at Jubail Commercial Port?
Jubail Commercial Port offers strategic advantages including proximity to Jubail Industrial City (one of the world’s largest petrochemical complexes), access to Saudi Arabia’s competitive fuel pricing from major refining facilities, connectivity to Arabian Gulf shipping lanes and international trade routes, and comprehensive port infrastructure supporting efficient vessel operations. The port’s position on Saudi Arabia’s eastern coast provides an optimal refueling point for vessels operating in the Arabian Gulf region.