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RAK port to boost capacity fivefold

Mohammed A. Al Mehrizi, Director of Ras Al Khaimah Customs and Port, said the massive two-phased expansion programme was aimed at developing the port as a world class facility to keep pace with the cargo volumes. "The capacity boost is in line with the all round vibrant growth and modernisation the emirate is currently witnessing under the dynamic leadership of Shaikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaima."

The contract has been awarded to Anthena. Gibb Ltd Abu Dhabi is the official consultant of the over Dh100 million programme.

He said the Dh30 million first phase, commissioned last week, provides a second 303 meter berth with a draft of eight metres. The Dh28 million second phase, construction of which has started, will add another 400 metres of jetty, expanding the length of berths from the original 160 metres to to 860 metres.

In addition, port has awarded a Dh50 million contract for Phase II –B construction of 16 Warehouses including two cold storages and accommodation block for port employees.

The port, which extends along the creek, plays an active role in the export and re-export business because it receives a large number of medium and large ships and merchant dhows from neighbouring countries, said Sunil Mukundan, Port Manager, RAK Port.

The second berth has been commissioned by berthing M/V Windsor Star.

Mukundan said the port receives various types of cargo and passenger ships and is active in re-export and export trade activities with neighbouring countries.

"Our geographical position makes it an ideal port for all types of cargo operations. "In addition to other products, we expect to handle 800,000 tonnes of gypsum and export 100,000 tonnes of cement. As a gateway to the Gulf, RAK Port has the potential to emerge as one of the the best ports in the region under the port chairman Shaikh Ahmed bin Saqr Al Qasimi," he said.

"Ideally located for importing fresh vegetables and fruits from India, Pakistan and Iran, the port is only one hour drive from Dubai thanks to the Emirates Road."

He said the port, equipped with a modern passenger terminal, has also plans to start a ferry service to Quishim, Iran. "We will be using 150 seated catamaran passenger ferry boats."