Dutch oil storage giants suspend operations after Fujairah fire

Refuelling operations at Fujairah, a key bunkering hub in the United Arab Emirates, have been curtailed following a port fire, prompting Dutch oil storage firms to suspend their activities. Meanwhile, demand is expected to rise at other refuelling centers, including Singapore, Reuters reports.

“Some bunker deliveries and loadings are on hold as suppliers, traders, and shippers await more clarity on the situation,” a market source said, while others noted that bunkering remains possible in certain areas.

Dutch oil storage companies VTTI and Royal Vopak confirmed in statements that they have temporarily suspended operations at their Fujairah terminals following the fire.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, which have already disrupted fuel shipments in the region. Prices for marine fuel at Fujairah surged on March 2, with traders warning that some demand may shift to alternative ports such as Singapore.

Transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint carrying roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas, has nearly halted after several vessels in the area were hit.

Despite the disruptions, some bunkering activities continue at Fujairah, though sales have largely stalled following Monday’s spike in marine fuel offers, Dubai-based sources said, reflecting concerns over a prolonged supply disruption.

By Vafa Guliyeva