Khalifa Bin Salman Port — Capt. Adelmo Labaguis
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Khalifa Bin Salman Port

Developed as Bahrain’s main commercial port, providing advanced facilities for handling international cargo and supporting modern logistics operations.

Active Port Compulsory Pilotage APM Terminals / MPA Administered
Cargo Ship
KHALIFA BIN SALMAN PORT — ARABIAN GULF, BAHRAIN
26°11’N
Latitude
50°39’E
Longitude
Arabian Gulf
Sea Basin
MPA / APMT
Port Authority

Overview

Developed as Bahrain’s main commercial port, Khalifa Bin Salman Port provides advanced facilities for handling international cargo and supporting modern logistics operations. The port manages container traffic, general cargo, and specialized shipments while serving businesses and industries that rely on efficient maritime transportation.

Its modern infrastructure helps improve cargo flow and supports Bahrain’s growing role as a regional logistics center within the Arabian Gulf.

History

Commissioned to supersede older legacy port infrastructure, Khalifa Bin Salman Port was engineered to accommodate the growing scale of modern containerization and global shipping requirements.

Since its inauguration, it has served as the linchpin of Bahrain’s maritime strategy, significantly expanding handling capacities and integrating state-of-the-art terminal operating systems.

Location & Approaches

Situated on the northeastern coast of the Kingdom of Bahrain, the port features deep-water access channels designed to comfortably berth ultra-large container vessels and modern multi-purpose carriers.

Port Facts

Coordinates26°11’N 50°39’E
BasinArabian Gulf
Administered ByMPA / APM Terminals Bahrain
PilotageCompulsory
Cargo TypesContainers / General / Bulk / Ro-Ro
Passenger TerminalAvailable
Tidal RangeModerate (Arabian Gulf)
Primary TradesCommercial & Logistics Hub
LAYOUT & FACILITIES

Port layout and cargo facilities

Advanced quays, container yards, and specialized infrastructure designed for efficient multi-modal logistics.

Containerized Cargo

State-of-the-art container terminals equipped with high-gantry cranes and optimized stacking yards for rapid vessel turnaround.

General Cargo

Versatile break-bulk berths and spacious warehousing configured for diverse non-containerized merchandise.

Bulk Cargo

Specialized dry bulk handling systems capable of servicing high-capacity carriers efficiently.

Vehicles & Ro-Ro

Dedicated roll-on/roll-off ramps and expansive paved storage areas designed for automotive imports and heavy machinery.

Industrial Materials

Secure storage zones and heavy-lift quays supporting regional manufacturing and raw material supply chains.

Logistics Services

Integrated warehousing, cold storage facilities, and CFS zones streamlining distribution across the region.

OPERATIONS & NAVIGATION

Pilotage, restrictions, and hazards

Essential operational procedures and navigational guidelines for vessels arriving at Khalifa Bin Salman Port.

Pilotage & Tug Services

Compulsory pilotage applies for all inbound and outbound vessels. High-powered harbor tugs coordinate docking operations.

Port Restrictions

Strict vessel speed limits and traffic separation schemes are enforced within the approach channels to maintain safe navigation.

Weather Conditions

Generally stable regional weather, though seasonal Shamal winds can create reduced visibility and choppy sea conditions.

Navigation Hazards

Vessels must maintain situational awareness regarding localized commercial craft and approach channel buoyage.

Emergency Contacts & Nearby Services

Port safety and emergency response are managed directly by port control authorities in coordination with national maritime rescue services. Comprehensive bunkering, fresh water, and husbandry services are available on request via local agents.

Interesting Facts 🌍

  • Khalifa Bin Salman Port is one of Bahrain’s newest and most advanced ports.
  • Designed specifically to replace older port facilities and increase the country’s capacity for international trade and shipping operations.
  • Serves as a vital transshipment hub connecting the upper Arabian Gulf with global trade routes.
  • Integrates cutting-edge digital port community systems to accelerate customs clearance and cargo processing.

Related Ports

Recommended Reading

KBSP Terminal Guidelines — Coming Soon Bahrain Pilotage Notes — Coming Soon
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