In a landmark move aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Minerva Saudi has announced the successful deployment of a 113,000 cubic meter Floating Storage Unit (FSU) at Jeddah Islamic Port, a vital Red Sea maritime hub. This initiative marks a critical advancement in the Kingdom’s push to modernize and expand its maritime services economy, a strategic pillar in its national transformation agenda.
A Game-Changer in Red Sea Bunkering Logistics
The newly deployed FSU represents a significant step forward in optimizing the marine fuels supply chain across the Red Sea region. With capabilities spanning from bulk fuel sourcing and blending to bunker tanker loadings and final vessel delivery, this logistical enhancement is set to redefine the regional marine energy landscape.
Positioned within a bonded customs zone, the FSU allows for streamlined import and export operations. This zone, now fully activated, ensures seamless customs clearance and provides robust regulatory oversight while maximizing logistical agility.
The storage unit is fully equipped to carry all three core marine fuel types:
These fuels are distributed primarily through Minerva’s fleet of modern bunker tankers, serving major Saudi ports including:
- Jeddah Islamic Port
- Yanbu Commercial Port
- Yanbu Industrial Port
- King Abdullah Port
- Jazan Port
Additionally, the FSU supports the wider bunkering ecosystem by enabling cargo provision to other licensed bunker suppliers, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a regional hub for marine fuel supply.
A Collaborative Framework for Innovation
The deployment of the FSU is the result of extensive collaboration between Minerva Saudi and several key government bodies. These include the Ministry of Energy, Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI), Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA), and the Transport General Authority.
In a notable innovation for the Kingdom, the FSU has been registered as a bonded customs warehouse, a structure that streamlines operations while maintaining strict customs controls. This regulatory breakthrough enables faster turnaround times and more predictable delivery schedules for shipping operators across the region.
Digital Bunkering Transformation
Further elevating service standards, Minerva Saudi has integrated cutting-edge digital technology into its operations. Leveraging ADP’s digital bunkering platform, the company offers:
- Real-time operational efficiency
- Automated quantity measurement
- Fuel quality assurance
- Immediate data reporting to authorities, including ZATCA
This digital framework ensures transparency, reduces risk, and delivers critical data to stakeholders in real time, strengthening trust and accountability throughout the supply chain.
About Minerva Bunkering
Minerva Bunkering, a 100% subsidiary of Mercuria Energy Group, is recognized as the world’s largest physical supplier of marine fuels. Serving vessels in over 150 global ports, Minerva procures marine fuel products in bulk and delivers to a diverse customer base of more than 750 active clients, including container ships, bulk carriers, cruise liners, tankers, and ferries.
Through its global reach, technical capabilities, and now with a major strategic presence in the Red Sea, Minerva Bunkering continues to solidify its leadership in delivering innovative, efficient, and compliant bunkering solutions.
Source Minerva Bunkering