Ras At Tannurah, Saudi Arabia

Port Overview

Ras At Tannurah, located on Saudi Arabia’s eastern coast north of Dammam, is the world’s largest oil port. It handles about 90% of the Kingdom’s hydrocarbon exports and features 28 berths and three specialized terminals. The port is strategically vital, exporting up to 6.5 million barrels of oil per day, which accounts for roughly 7% of global oil demand. While it is a major energy hub, Ras At Tannurah is not a container port and does not report annual TEU capacity.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Ras At Tannurah is Saudi Arabia’s largest oil port, featuring three specialized terminals and 28 berths, including facilities on artificial islands for simultaneous loading of multiple VLCCs. The port handles crude oil, refined products, LPG, and petrochemicals, supported by extensive storage tanks and advanced pipeline infrastructure. Key equipment includes high-capacity loading arms, marine transfer systems, and modern navigational aids. Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) are not reported as part of standard operations.

Container Terminals

Ras At Tannurah, Saudi Arabia, does not have dedicated container terminals; it is primarily an oil export port. The port features 28 berths across three specialized terminals, with a total capacity exceeding 500 million tons annually. Automation is advanced, supporting efficient hydrocarbon handling. The major operator is Saudi Aramco, under the Saudi Ports Authority. Containerized cargo operations are not a focus at this facility.

Port Services

• Container handling: Limited, as Ras At Tannurah is primarily an oil export port with specialized terminals for petroleum products.
• Cargo operations: Focused on crude oil, refined products, and petrochemicals; includes loading, unloading, and transfer via pipelines and berths.
• Ship services: Pilotage, tug assistance, bunkering, vessel agency, and emergency response.
• Warehousing: Extensive onshore storage tanks for hydrocarbons; general warehousing is minimal.
• Customs: Full customs clearance and documentation support for export and import operations.

Global Connectivity

Ras At Tannurah is Saudi Arabia’s primary crude oil export terminal, directly connected to major oil fields and national pipeline networks. It serves global markets in Asia, Europe, and North America, with shipping routes via the Arabian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. The port accommodates ultra-large crude carriers and connects with key regional ports, ensuring efficient hydrocarbon exports to major international energy hubs. Its infrastructure supports seamless integration into global energy supply chains.

Port Statistics

Port: Ras At Tannurah (Ras Tanura), Saudi Arabia
TEU Throughput: Not a major container port; primarily handles crude oil and petroleum products, with negligible container throughput
World Ranking: Not ranked among top container ports globally
Number of Berths: 26
Port Area: Specific land area not published; the port complex is extensive, supporting major oil export operations
Shipping Lines: Serviced mainly by oil and tanker shipping companies; not a hub for regular container shipping lines