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Ash Shihr Oil Terminal
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The Ash Shihr Oil Terminal, located in the Hadramaut Governorate on the Gulf of Aden, is the largest and most critical oil export point in Yemen. It serves as the terminus for the Masila pipeline, which transports crude oil from the highly productive Masila Basin to the coast. The terminal was commissioned in 1993 and is currently operated by PetroMasila, following its management by international firms like Nexen. The facility features advanced loading infrastructure, including two offshore loading buoys that enable the handling of massive tankers in deep waters away from the shore. Ash Shihr is vital for Yemen's foreign exchange earnings, as a significant portion of the national budget is derived from the oil exported through this facility. Despite the prevailing instability in the region, the terminal has seen various upgrades to maintain export flows and adhere to international safety standards for maritime oil trade.
- Location: Yemen
- Top sights: Marir · Shibam Souq · Masjid al Bayd
- Nearby: Shuhayr (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 20 | 22 | 25 | 28 | 30 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 25 | 23 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Ash Shihr Oil Terminal is the main export terminal for crude oil from the Masila oil fields in southern Yemen. It plays a crucial role in Yemen's economy, generating the majority of state revenues from oil exports.
Visiting
The terminal is a highly secured industrial site, not open to the public. From the coastal road, you can see the storage tanks and loading facilities from afar.
Where to view it
A suitable viewpoint is the hill east of the terminal, where you can get a good overview of the facility and coastline. Also, the beach of Al-Mukalla features a side view of the loading buoys.
Local products
The region is known for its oil production, but also for fishing and agriculture. In the markets of Al-Mukalla, you can find fresh fish, tuna, lobster, as well as dates and honey from the Hadramaut Valley.
Active season
The terminal operates year-round, but ship loading varies seasonally due to global demand fluctuations. Activity is often highest during the winter months.
Nearby
A visit to the terminal can be combined with exploring the old city of Al-Mukalla and its traditional souk. The historic town of Shibam, with its mud-brick skyscrapers, is a day trip away and well worth seeing.
Geography
Facts
- The terminal was officially commissioned in August 1993.
- Terminus of a 24-inch diameter pipeline from the Masila field.
- Handles the export of the internationally traded 'Masila Blend'.
- Equipped with two offshore Single Point Mooring (SPM) buoys.
- Features an on-site storage capacity of over 3.5 million barrels.
- Management shifted to the state-owned PetroMasila in 2011.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Ash Shihr Oil Terminal (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can one visit the terminal in Ash Shihr?
No, it is closed to the public.
What is the function of this oil terminal?
It is used for the export of crude oil arriving by pipeline from the interior.
Are there tourist destinations nearby?
The city of Ash Shihr itself has a historical old town.
Is the area safe?
The security situation is unstable and requires great caution.
What is the best way to travel?
Tourist travel should currently be avoided.
Ash Shihr Oil Terminal: where is it located?
Ash Shihr Oil Terminal is located in Yemen.
Ash Shihr Oil Terminal: what is there to see?
Highlights include Marir, Shibam Souq, Masjid al Bayd.
Ash Shihr Oil Terminal: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Dec.
Ash Shihr Oil Terminal: why is it worth visiting?
The Ash Shihr Oil Terminal, located in the Hadramaut Governorate on the Gulf of Aden, is the largest and most critical oil export point in Yemen.
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