Umm Qasr

Size limits

LOA 366.46m, beam 51.2m, draught 12.50m, 204,748DWT.

Water density

1025.

Load line zone

Tropical.

Tides

Range approx 3.0-4.0m. The outgoing stream is strong, reaching a rate of 4kts.

Approach

The port is approached through Khawr 'Abd Allah and entered through Khawr Shityanah, Khawr Sakaa and Khawr Umm Qasr.

The pilotage commences off the entrance to the Shatt-al-Arab waterway, the channel to Umm Qasr, which has recently been dredged to 13.4m is well lit and both wide and deep enough to allow vessels drawing up to 11.0m to transit across either of the day's two high tides.

There is a turning basin at the entrance to the basin berths.

Caution: The channel is subject to frequent changes in depths so mariners are advised to seek the latest information from the port authorities.

Port limits

The port lies within the limits of the Port of Basrah.

Anchorages

Outer anchorage in designed anchorage approx 3.5nm SW of Al-Basra Oil Terminal.

Holding anchorage approx 1nm NE of No N18 Light Beacon in a depth of 10.0m, inbound vessels can expect to leave the anchorage about 4.5 hours before HW.

Anchorage may be obtained in the river off the port by vessels up to 100m in length.

Tugs

Tugs are available.

Charts and publications

BA 1235, 1228, 2884. Admiralty Pilot NP63, NP286(8).

ETA and pre-arrival notices

Should be sent 72 hours prior to arrival at Maritime Security Force checkpoint and 48, 24, and 12 hours prior to arrival to Umm Qasr Port Control and vessels should also report inbound and outbound when passing Buoys No 23 and 24.

The information required includes the following: Name of vessel, callsign, flag, GT, DWT, arrival draught, cargo to be discharged.

Communications

Radio callsign "RNT", frequency 6493kHz. Basrah Radio, callsign "YIR".

Notice of readiness

The NOR is tendered by masters at the pilot station subject to the requirements of the Charter Party.

Health

Pratique should be applied for 24 hours prior to arrival, preferably by telex, via agent. Ship Sanitation Control Certificate (SSCC) and Ship Sanitation Control Exemption Certificate (SSCEC) can be renewed.

Customs and immigration

It is reported that customs and immigration are operating as normal.

Flags

The national flag of Iraq is to be hoisted.

Notices and regulations

Vessels bound for Umm Qasr carrying commercial or humanitarian cargo should contact Umm Qasr Port on VHF Ch 14 or 12 for the latest details concerning navigation to the Khawr 'Abd Allah.

ISPS

For ISPS information see IMO website http://www.imo.org.

Repairs

Available.

Bunkers, water and stores

Fresh water: Available by road tanker.

Bunkering: Available by road tanker, only in emergency.

Stores: Available.

Medical

Nearest hospital: Um Qasr General Hospital (2.5km).

Crew change

Crew change is possible.

Transport

Nearest airport: Basra International Airport (60km).

Working hours

Throughout 24 hours.

Where it is

Umm Qasr is situated at the confluence of the Khor Zubair and the Khor Abdullah Rivers.

The port

Umm Qasr is Iraq's primary cargo port, serving as a critical gateway for international trade. It handles a wide range of operations, including passenger services, containerized goods, livestock, bulk shipments and general cargo. Following its recent reopening to commercial shipping after the conflict, Umm Qasr has resumed its role as a central hub for the nation's trade and logistics. Its strategic importance makes it a vital point for economic activity in the region.

Traffic

Approx 500,000TEU handled annually.

What are the pilot arrangements at Umm Qasr?

Compulsory except for designated vessels.

What time zone is Umm Qasr in?

Local time at Umm Qasr is UTC+3. No summer time.

What is the water density at Umm Qasr?

1025.

Which load line zone is Umm Qasr in?

Tropical.

What is the UN/LOCODE of Umm Qasr?

The UN/LOCODE of Umm Qasr is IQUQR.

What crews who called at Umm Qasr say: pilot boarding, the agent's papers, inspections, shore leave. Each tip is shown with the writer's rank and ship type, and an AI summary sits on top once there are three or more.

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