Bahrain – A Modern Maritime Hub

Bahrain – A Modern Maritime Hub

The Kingdom of Bahrain, a small but strategically located island nation in the Arabian Gulf, boasts a number of pivotal ports that serve as vital hubs for trade, industry, and commerce in the region. These ports have historically played a significant role in Bahrain’s economic development and continue to position the country as a logistical and maritime powerhouse.

Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP),

The principal port in Bahrain is the Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP), which opened in 2009 and quickly became a cornerstone of the nation’s maritime infrastructure. Located in the town of Hidd on Muharraq Island, KBSP is a state-of-the-art facility designed to handle large-scale cargo and container traffic. It spans a substantial 110 hectares and offers advanced equipment and facilities, making it one of the most modern and efficient ports in the region. KBSP serves as a crucial transshipment hub, connecting trade routes between Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. It supports various industries, including oil and gas, construction, and manufacturing.

Tthe port is managed by Bahrain’s General Organisation of Sea Ports (GOP) and operated by APM Terminals.

Key Features and Specifications:

Location: The port is located in the town of Hidd on Muharraq Island Coordinates approximately 26.2200° N latitude, 50.6450° E longitude.
Size: The port spans an area of around 110 hectares (1.1 million square meters).
Water Depth: The port is able to accommodate larger vessels with a water depth of 15 meters alongside the quay
Quay Length: Total quay length is 1,800 meters with five main berths.

Infrastructure and Facilities:

Container Terminals: Equipped with advanced handling equipment, including ship-to-shore (STS) cranes and rubber-tired gantry (RTG) cranes.
Storage: Extensive warehousing and open storage areas.
Capacity: Handles approximately 1 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) annually.

Services:

Customs and Border Control: Streamlined processes for efficient clearance.
Marine Services: Pilotage, towage, and bunkering.
Connectivity: Close proximity to Bahrain International Airport (13 kilometers away) and direct access to the King Fahd Causeway, linking Bahrain to Saudi Arabia.

KBSP is not just a logistical hub but also a significant contributor to Bahrain’s economy, providing employment opportunities and supporting various industries. Its strategic location and advanced facilities make it a key player in regional and global trade networks.