In the current landscape of heightened security and shifting operational mandates, staying ahead of the curve is a necessity for global supply chains. This update provides critical insights into the maritime and logistics environment across the Middle East, ensuring your operations remain resilient amidst technical challenges and regional shifts.
Regional Overview
Most ports across the Middle East remain operational, with maritime and airport activities continuing under heightened security monitoring. However, authorities continue to issue precautionary measures, and conditions may change at short notice. Shippers should prepare for increased scrutiny and potential delays.
Key Updates by Country
Oman: Navigation and Security Compliance
All Omani ports are currently operational, but specific technical requirements are now in place to counter regional interference.
- Mina Al Fahal (MAF): Due to ongoing GPS interference, vessels must have a fully operational Doppler log. Vessels lacking this equipment may be denied berthing.
- Security Levels: Qalhat LNG and Mina Al Fahal are operating under ISPS Security Level 2.
- Cargo Requirements: Vessels carrying dangerous or military cargo must declare full details in advance for ministry approval.
United Arab Emirates: Congestion and Signal Risks
While major hubs like Jebel Ali and Abu Dhabi remain functional, congestion and electronic interference are primary concerns.
- GPS Spoofing: Frequent spoofing and jamming incidents continue offshore Fujairah, affecting positioning systems.
- Berth Congestion: Fujairah is seeing waiting times of up to three weeks for breakbulk, bulk, and RoRo vessels.
- Ship-To-Ship (STS): Operations in Dubai waters have resumed with tug assistance, subject to case-by-case approval.
Qatar & Bahrain: Operational Restrictions
- Qatar (Ras Laffan): Vessels are required to switch off Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) while within port limits and anchorages.
- Bahrain: Port operations have resumed on a limited basis, but BAPCO (Bahrain Petroleum Company) operations remain suspended. Airport activities are partially resumed with limited flight availability.
Iraq: Export Disruptions
Commercial ports remain operational, but energy exports are facing significant interruptions.
- Oil Terminals: Basrah Oil Terminal and SPM SOMO Terminal have suspended export operations.
- Crewing: Crew changes are still possible, though visa processing delays persist.
Important Advisory for Customers
To ensure smooth transit through the region, we recommend the following strategic actions:
- Early Declarations: Expect additional declaration and approval requirements for dangerous goods or military cargo.
- Schedule Buffers: Build extra time into your supply chain to account for regional security measures and berth congestion in the UAE.
- Technical Readiness: Ensure vessels are equipped with non-GPS dependent navigation aids (Doppler logs) when calling at Omani terminals.
We continue to monitor developments closely and will provide updates as conditions evolve. For specific cargo queries, please contact your account representative.