Plizio Visual Lab

Port of Assab

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Port

Weather…

The Port of Assab, located in the far south of Eritrea, is strategically positioned near the Bab-el-Mandeb strait, the entrance to the Red Sea. Originally acquired in the 19th century by an Italian shipping company, Assab developed into one of the region most modern ports, featuring seven berths and extensive storage capacities. For a long period, the port served as the primary transit point for the foreign trade of neighboring Ethiopia, leading to massive economic growth in the city. The facility is equipped to handle crude oil, containers, and general cargo. In recent years, the port has seen modernization and now serves as a base for various logistical operations in the southern Red Sea. Its strategic location makes Assab a potential hub for international trade between Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The Eritrean government plans to further expand the port infrastructure to capitalize on the increasing maritime activity in the region.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	26	28	30	32	33	33	32	33	30	28	26
Rain mm	3	3	7	33	25	16	67	73	39	17	4	7

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Port of Assab is a strategically located deep-water port in southern Eritrea near the Bab al-Mandab strait. It serves as a vital gateway for international trade and cargo transport to the region.

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Visiting

The port area is a fenced industrial zone with restricted access. Visitors can still view the quays and loading cranes from the nearby coastal road.

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Where to view it

The best public viewpoint is a hill south of the port, offering a panoramic view of the entire basin. From the pier at the eastern end, incoming ships are also clearly visible.

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Local products

Assab has a lively fish market where fresh seafood is sold directly by local fishermen. Imported goods from international shipping traffic are also available in the city's shops.

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Active season

The port is typically active year-round, with increased traffic during the calmer monsoon months from November to March. More cargo vessels call at the port during this period.

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Nearby

Combine the port visit with exploring the city of Assab, including its historic Italian colonial architecture. The nearby salt flats of the Danakil Depression are also worth a trip.

Geography

Coordinates

13.00840, 42.74100

Facts

Assab features 7 berths for vessels with a draft of up to 13 meters.
The port was originally purchased in 1869 by the Italian Rubattino company.
In the 1990s, the port handled over 1 million tons of cargo annually.
The harbor complex includes its own desalination plant for water supply.
It is strategically located just a few kilometers from the Bab-el-Mandeb strait.
An international airport is located nearby to provide logistical support.