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Mbao Oil Refinery
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Industrial site
The Mbao oil refinery, operated by the Société Africaine de Raffinage (SAR), is Senegal's sole petroleum refinery and a strategic asset for national energy security. Located in Mbao, east of Dakar, it was established in the early 1960s to meet the growing domestic demand for fuel. The refinery processes imported crude oil into gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for the local market. In recent years, extensive modernization programs have been initiated to expand capacity and upgrade facilities to handle crude oil from newly discovered Senegalese offshore fields, such as Sangomar. SAR plays a pivotal role in stabilizing energy prices and ensuring a steady supply for the transportation sector and national power plants. As a major industrial employer, the company continuously invests in technical training and high-level safety standards. The refinery also serves as a key partner for regional integration, providing fuel products to landlocked neighboring countries.
- Location: Senegal
- Top sights: Scène de spectacle · Plage Ab-Gokh
- Nearby: Pikine (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 11 | 9 | 3 | 6 | 3 | 14 | 79 | 191 | 170 | 49 | 9 | 13 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Mbao Oil Refinery, operated by Société Africaine de Raffinage, is Senegal's only oil refinery and thus crucial for the country's fuel supply. It processes crude oil into various petroleum products like gasoline and diesel.
Visiting
As an active industrial facility, the refinery is usually not open to the public. From the adjacent coastal strip or the road, the installations and tank farms can be seen from a distance.
Where to view it
A suitable viewpoint is the coastal road N1, which passes close to the plant grounds and has a view of the refinery towers. Mbao beach also provides an elevated perspective of the facility and ship traffic in Dakar port.
Local products
No products are sold directly to end users on site, but the fuel produced here is available at gas stations in the region. In Mbao's markets, however, typical Senegalese goods like fish and fruits can be found.
Active season
The refinery operates continuously throughout the year to secure Senegal's energy supply. Maintenance work typically occurs in the dry season from November to May, when demand is slightly lower.
Nearby
A visit to Mbao can be combined with a trip to Dakar, just a few kilometers away, offering cultural attractions. Mbao beach and the Îles de la Madeleine are also worthwhile nearby destinations.
Geography
Facts
- The Société Africaine de Raffinage (SAR) was established in 1961.
- The refinery officially commenced its industrial operations in 1963.
- Historically processed approximately 1.2 million tons of crude oil per year.
- A current modernization project aims to increase annual capacity to 1.5 million tons.
- The state-owned Petrosen holding company maintains a roughly 46% stake.
- Primary supplier of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for domestic use in Senegal.
- Crucial for integrating domestic crude oil production from the Sangomar field.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Mbao Oil Refinery (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Ölraffinerie Mbao?
It is the country's only oil refinery, responsible for the supply of fuels and energy resources.
Can one visit the refinery?
No, for safety reasons, access is strictly prohibited for visitors.
Why is Mbao economically important?
The refinery ensures energy independence and supplies the entire national market with petroleum products.
What is worth visiting near Mbao?
The region is located near the coast, where you can find typical fishing villages and local markets.
When should one travel in this area?
Visits are most pleasant during the dry season from November to May.
Mbao Oil Refinery: where is it located?
Mbao Oil Refinery is located in Senegal.
Mbao Oil Refinery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Scène de spectacle, Plage Ab-Gokh.
Mbao Oil Refinery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Mbao Oil Refinery: why is it worth visiting?
The Mbao oil refinery, operated by the Société Africaine de Raffinage (SAR), is Senegal's sole petroleum refinery and a strategic asset for national energy security.
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Port of Rufisque
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