Saudi Aramco will not permit vessels not in compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security code to enter its ports and terminals any longer, it has been confirmed.

Aramco has insisted that all vessels over 500 dwt sailing internationally and calling on the ports must possess a valid International Security Certificate issued by the vessel’s Flag State in accordance with the ISPS code. Extensions beyond Jul 1 will not be entertained. Meanwhile, Aramco will not compensate vessels, which are not allowed to enter the ports, for the cost incurred to travel there, sources added. Following the recent terrorist attacks on Saudi Arabia’s oil facilities, the OPEC kingpin has stepped up its port security, including strict enforcement of the ISPS code. The code is especially designed to detect and deter maritime threats to international security.
Saudi Arabia’s Ras Tanura oil terminal on the Persian Gulf has a 6-mil b/d export capacity and the Yanbu terminal on the Red Sea has a 5-mil b/d oil export capacity.