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Basra Oil Terminal
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The Basra Oil Terminal (formerly known as the Al-Bakr Terminal) is a strategic offshore facility located in the Persian Gulf, approximately 50 kilometers southeast of the Al-Faw Peninsula. It is the primary gateway for the export of Iraqi crude oil, handling a vast majority of the country's total oil production destined for global markets. The terminal is situated in deep water, allowing it to accommodate and load Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) that cannot access shallower mainland ports. The structure consists of several platforms connected by bridges and underwater pipelines, equipped with advanced metering and loading systems. Since its opening in the 1970s, the terminal has been a frequent military target due to its vital economic significance, particularly during the Iran-Iraq War. Following 2003, the facility underwent extensive rehabilitation and modernization under international supervision to stabilize export capacities. Today, the terminal is protected 24/7 by the Iraqi Navy and international security forces to ensure the security of global energy supplies.
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 16 | 19 | 23 | 29 | 33 | 34 | 35 | 33 | 29 | 23 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 18 | 17 | 5 | 10 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 8 | 12 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Basra Oil Terminal is a central offshore oil loading facility in the Persian Gulf through which most of Iraq's crude oil is exported. It is crucial for the Iraqi economy and the global oil market.
Visiting
The terminal is offshore and not accessible; boat trips nearby are possible. The facility can be viewed from a safe distance from seagoing vessels.
Where to view it
The best view is from boat tours departing from Basra port or the Al-Faw peninsula. From a distance, the tanker berths and platform are discernible.
Local products
In Basra there are markets with dates, fish, and traditional handicrafts. Products of the terminal are not available.
Active season
Tanker loading is continuous, with increased activity upon ship arrivals. Operations are stable year-round.
Nearby
Combine a boat tour to the terminal with a visit to Basra city and the Shatt al-Arab. The Al-Faw peninsula also gives scenic landscapes.
Geography
Facts
- The terminal was originally commissioned for operations in 1975.
- It features four berths capable of loading VLCC-class tankers simultaneously.
- The maximum export capacity exceeds 1.6 million barrels of oil per day.
- The facility is located in waters with an average depth of 30 meters.
- It is connected to the Al-Faw onshore station via three 48-inch pipelines.
- The terminal accounts for more than 70% of Iraq's total export revenue.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Basra oil terminal?
An offshore facility in the Persian Gulf for oil export.
Can the terminal be seen from land?
No, it is located far out at sea.
How is the oil transported to the terminal?
Through pipelines running along the seabed.
Can ships dock there freely?
Only authorized supertankers are allowed to approach the terminal.
Who protects the facility?
The Iraqi Navy constantly monitors the area.
Basra Oil Terminal: where is it located?
Basra Oil Terminal is located in Iraq.
Basra Oil Terminal: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Nov.
Basra Oil Terminal: why is it worth visiting?
The Basra Oil Terminal (formerly known as the Al-Bakr Terminal) is a strategic offshore facility located in the Persian Gulf, approximately 50 kilometers southeast of the Al-Faw Peninsula.
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