Saudi Arabia Introduces First Floating Storage Unit For Marine Fuel At Jeddah Islamic Port

The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) and Minerva Saudi Arabia have introduced the first floating storage unit (FSU) for marine fuel at Jeddah Islamic Port. This unit, with a capacity of 113,000 cubic meters, marks a significant development in the Saudi maritime sector. It aims to enhance operational and logistical capabilities, aligning with the National Transport and Logistics Strategy under Saudi Vision 2030.

This FSU represents a major advancement for the marine fuel supply chain in the Red Sea. It is designed to improve bulk fuel delivery efficiency, streamline blending operations, and expedite bunker barge loading for vessels in transit. The project is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Energy, Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), and Transport General Authority (TGA).

The new FSU will support Minerva’s fleet of bunker tankers by allowing them to provide efficient services and supply fuel to other licensed providers. It is equipped to store three main types of marine fuel: very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO), high sulfur fuel oil (HSFO), and marine gas oil (MGO). This capability enhances flexibility for stakeholders involved in marine operations.

The designation of the FSU as a bonded customs zone introduces an innovative approach that ensures efficient operations while maintaining full customs oversight of all cargo movements. This setup supports the new bonded customs zone by enabling faster and smoother clearance procedures for imports and exports.

Minerva Saudi Arabia offers a state-of-the-art digital platform powered by ADP technology (@adpclear.io) for bunker fuel supply. This platform provides world-class operational efficiency, precise guarantees on fuel quantities, and complete transparency on quality. These features contribute to enhancing the overall efficiency of marine operations.

The launch of this FSU is a strategic move to strengthen Saudi Arabia's maritime economy. By improving logistical capabilities and supporting efficient marine operations, it aligns with the objectives set forth in Saudi Vision 2030. The project highlights the Kingdom's commitment to advancing its maritime sector through innovative solutions.

With inputs from SPA