Port Regulations 151118

Petroleum Ports Authority
Port Regulations
Version: 7
Date: 15 Nov 2018
ADNOC/B&CSD/PPA/201
DOCUMENT OWNERSHIP
ADNOC Business and Commercial Support Directorate (B&CSD) shall be the custodian of this document.
B&CSD shall ensure that the current version of this document is made available to all concerned.
ADNOC Petroleum Ports Authority (PPA) is the owner of this document and shall be responsible for initiating
any required changes to the document. Any and all approved changes shall be incorporated by re-issuing the
document at the next revision with a revision number.
Any inconsistency/discrepancy with the International Best practices, International/Local legislations, UAE
Federal Laws if noted shall immediately be brought to the attention of PPA. Authority for the interpretation
contained in this procedure is vested in ADNOC Petroleum Ports Authority.
Any recommendation for the continuous improvement is to be submitted to B&CSD via PPA, who has the sole
right to approve and circulate revisions for implementation accordingly.
Review History
DATE REV. NO. DESCRIPTION REFERENCE SECTION
Revision History
DATE REV. NO. DESCRIPTION REFERENCE SECTION
© Petroleum Ports Authority
No part of this document may be reproduced, utilized, stored in any retrieval system or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording or by any information,
storage or retrieval system without the written permission of ADNOC Petroleum Ports Authority. Any
electronic or printed copies are uncontrolled.
For the current version of this document please visit https://ppa.adnoc.ae
Version: 7
Date: 15 Nov 2018
ADNOC/B&CSD/PPA/201 Page 2 of 55
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................................. 7
1.1 SCOPE .......................................................................................................................................... 7
2 GLOSSARY ........................................................................................................................................ 8
3 GENERAL PROVISIONS ................................................................................................................. 14
3.1 ADMINISTRATIVE PROVISIONS ....................................................................................................... 14
3.1.1 Title ........................................................................................................................................ 14
3.1.2 Port Limits.............................................................................................................................. 14
3.1.3 General Provisions pertaining to all licences, permissions and permits ............................... 15
3.1.4 No transfer of licenses and permits ....................................................................................... 15
3.1.5 Obligations of holders of licenses or permits ........................................................................ 15
3.2 TARIFFS....................................................................................................................................... 16
3.2.1 Port tariffs .............................................................................................................................. 16
3.2.2 Tariffs of service providers in port ......................................................................................... 16
3.2.3 Payment of Port Charges ...................................................................................................... 16
3.2.4 Port clearance ....................................................................................................................... 17
3.2.5 Schedule of Tariffs ................................................................................................................ 17
3.2.6 Current Port Charges ............................................................................................................ 18
3.2.7 Port Dues (Oil Tax) ................................................................................................................ 20
3.3 REPORTING, NOTIFICATION........................................................................................................... 21
3.3.1 Reporting and Procedural Requirements .............................................................................. 21
3.3.2 Specific Reporting - Dangerous Goods and Noxious Substances ........................................ 22
3.3.3 Specific Reporting - Radioactive Substances ....................................................................... 22
3.3.4 Reporting of Incidents and Failures on Board ....................................................................... 23
3.3.5 Obligation for Vessel Owner and Representative to Report ................................................. 23
3.3.6 Notification ............................................................................................................................. 23
4 ORDER IN PORT, MARITIME ORDER, AND GENERAL MARITIME SAFETY ............................. 24
4.1 GENERAL OBLIGATIONS, ENTRY INTO THE PORT, OBJECTS IN PORT ................................................. 24
4.1.1 Duty to have an agent in port ................................................................................................ 24
4.1.2 Traffic rules ............................................................................................................................ 24
4.1.3 Port Approaches - Marks and Lights ..................................................................................... 24
4.1.4 Placement of objects / construction of facilities ..................................................................... 24
4.1.5 Removal of projections .......................................................................................................... 24
4.1.6 Permission to enter a port ..................................................................................................... 25
4.1.7 A/C System............................................................................................................................ 25
4.1.8 Tank Atmosphere .................................................................................................................. 25
4.1.9 Hydrogen Sulphide ................................................................................................................ 25
4.1.10 Permit for Marine projects within Port Areas ......................................................................... 25
4.1.11 Compliance with ADNOC Group Ship Vetting Policy ............................................................ 25
4.1.12 ETA and Pre Arrival Questionnaire ....................................................................................... 26
4.1.13 Animals .................................................................................................................................. 26
4.1.14 Transiting boats ..................................................................................................................... 26
4.1.15 Removal of Boats & small vessels ......................................................................................... 26
4.1.16 Prohibition and assignment of berthing ................................................................................. 26
4.1.17 Immobilization of engine, readiness ...................................................................................... 26
4.1.18 Boilers .................................................................................................................................... 26
4.1.19 Soot Blowing within Port Limits ............................................................................................. 27
4.1.20 Crew ...................................................................................................................................... 27
4.1.21 Shifting vessels...................................................................................................................... 27
4.1.22 Obstruction ............................................................................................................................ 27
4.1.23 Wreck Removal ..................................................................................................................... 27
4.1.24 Cargo and equipment on wrecks or in the water ................................................................... 27
4.1.25 Claims.................................................................................................................................... 28
4.1.26 Salvage .................................................................................................................................. 28
4.1.27 Exceptional powers ............................................................................................................... 28
4.1.28 Additional measures .............................................................................................................. 28
4.1.29 Port Officials Right to Board Vessel’s in Port ........................................................................ 28
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4.2 NAVIGATION, USE OF THE PORTS .................................................................................................. 28
4.2.1 Approaching and entering a port ........................................................................................... 28
4.2.2 Free pratique / Health formalities .......................................................................................... 29
4.2.3 Potential danger, damage or hindrance from vessels ........................................................... 29
4.2.4 Priority of entering or leaving the port ................................................................................... 29
4.2.5 Safe Speed ............................................................................................................................ 30
4.2.6 Under Keel clearance ............................................................................................................ 30
4.2.7 Anchors and Anchoring ......................................................................................................... 30
4.2.8 Manoeuvring .......................................................................................................................... 31
4.2.9 Vessels Moored in Port ......................................................................................................... 31
4.2.10 Use of bow, stern thrusters and side thrusters ...................................................................... 31
4.2.11 Lowering of boats .................................................................................................................. 31
4.2.12 Diving Operations .................................................................................................................. 31
4.2.13 Floating materials or under-water cables .............................................................................. 31
4.2.14 Pleasure craft and sailing vessels in port .............................................................................. 31
4.2.15 Fire-fighting Equipment ......................................................................................................... 32
4.2.16 Entry into Port and Visitors .................................................................................................... 32
4.2.17 Approach to vessels .............................................................................................................. 32
4.2.18 Alcohol ................................................................................................................................... 32
4.2.19 Swimming and fishing ........................................................................................................... 32
4.2.20 AIS (Automatic Identification Systems) ................................................................................. 32
5 SAFETY & SECURITY OF VESSELS OPERATIONS IN PORT ..................................................... 33
5.1 GENERAL SECURITY & SAFETY REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................. 33
5.1.1 Port Safety Requirements ..................................................................................................... 33
5.1.2 Operation of Transmitting equipment .................................................................................... 33
5.1.3 Use of Electrical equipment ................................................................................................... 33
5.1.4 Explosives ............................................................................................................................. 33
5.1.5 Fire Fighting Equipment ........................................................................................................ 34
5.1.6 Fire breakout ......................................................................................................................... 34
5.1.7 Pollution, Stench or Health Hazard ....................................................................................... 34
5.1.8 Noxious Substances .............................................................................................................. 34
5.1.9 Repairs / Maintenance whilst in Port ..................................................................................... 35
5.1.10 Substances or objects fallen into the water ........................................................................... 35
5.1.11 Vessels in danger .................................................................................................................. 35
5.1.12 Save All / Rat Guards / Gangways ........................................................................................ 36
5.1.13 Decks and gangways ............................................................................................................ 36
5.1.14 Fencing of openings on deck ................................................................................................ 36
5.1.15 Safety of loading and unloading ............................................................................................ 36
5.1.16 Bunkering .............................................................................................................................. 36
5.1.17 Discharge of waste ................................................................................................................ 37
5.2 CARGO OPERATIONS .................................................................................................................... 37
5.2.1 Naval Vessels ........................................................................................................................ 37
5.2.2 Display of appropriate signals ............................................................................................... 37
5.2.3 Preparations on board vessels .............................................................................................. 37
5.2.4 Vessel Fire Plans, Loading / Discharging Plans and Stowage Plans, .................................. 37
5.2.5 Stopping of cargo operations in case of fire .......................................................................... 37
5.2.6 Fumigation of vessels ............................................................................................................ 38
5.2.7 Application of the IMDG code ................................................................................................ 38
5.2.8 Leakage ................................................................................................................................. 38
5.2.9 Scuppers ............................................................................................................................... 38
5.2.10 Sparks from funnels .............................................................................................................. 38
5.2.11 Use of cooking equipment ..................................................................................................... 38
5.2.12 Responsibilities...................................................................................................................... 39
5.2.13 Lightning Storms & Gas Accumulation .................................................................................. 39
5.2.14 No Smoking ........................................................................................................................... 39
5.2.15 Ship to Ship Transfer (“STS”) within Petroleum Ports........................................................... 39
5.2.16 Transfer / Transhipment of dangerous goods in bulk............................................................ 40
5.2.17 Specific requirements - Transfer / Transhipment of Oil / Chemical / Liquefied Gas Cargoes40
5.2.18 Cleaning of cargo holds / tanks / bunker spaces .................................................................. 41
5.2.19 Crude Oil Washing Operations (COW) ................................................................................. 41
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5.2.20 Cleaning of cargo spaces other than COW ........................................................................... 42
5.2.21 Tank Cleaning /COW - Notifications ..................................................................................... 42
5.2.22 Emergency Towing Off / Fire Wires ...................................................................................... 42
5.3 BALLAST W ATER MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................... 43
5.3.1 General: ................................................................................................................................. 43
5.3.2 Scope of application: ............................................................................................................. 43
5.3.3 Enforcement of Ballast Water Management Convention ...................................................... 43
5.3.4 Exemptions ............................................................................................................................ 44
5.3.5 Exceptions ............................................................................................................................. 44
5.3.6 Reception Facility .................................................................................................................. 44
5.3.7 Violations ............................................................................................................................... 44
5.3.8 Compensation ....................................................................................................................... 44
5.3.9 More stringent requirements ................................................................................................. 44
5.3.10 Reporting oil spills ................................................................................................................. 45
6 SERVICES IN PORT ......................................................................................................................... 46
6.1 GENERAL PROVISIONS .................................................................................................................. 46
6.1.1 Specific license for provision of services in port areas.......................................................... 46
6.2 PILOTAGE .................................................................................................................................... 46
6.2.1 Compulsory Pilotage ............................................................................................................. 46
6.2.2 Completion of pre- arrival or pre-departure formalities ......................................................... 46
6.2.3 Organization - License to provide Pilotage Services............................................................. 46
6.2.4 Organization Pilotage License - Specifications ..................................................................... 46
6.2.5 Individual - Pilotage License .................................................................................................. 47
6.2.6 Certification of Pilots .............................................................................................................. 47
6.2.7 Identification of Pilots ............................................................................................................ 47
6.2.8 Suspension and cancellation of Individual Pilot's License .................................................... 48
6.2.9 Duty of a Pilot - Limitations .................................................................................................... 48
6.2.10 Responsibility of Master ........................................................................................................ 48
6.2.11 Permanent Exemption from Pilotage..................................................................................... 48
6.2.12 Pilotage Exemption Certificate .............................................................................................. 48
6.2.13 Validity of exemption certificate ............................................................................................. 48
6.2.14 Display of pilot signals ........................................................................................................... 48
6.2.15 Duties of the Master – Embarkation and Disembarkation of Pilots ....................................... 49
6.2.16 Obligation to Inform regarding Damage, Defects .................................................................. 49
6.3 TOWAGE ...................................................................................................................................... 49
6.3.1 Organization - License to provide Towage Services ............................................................. 49
6.3.2 Requirements of vessels and crew ....................................................................................... 49
6.3.3 Utilization of tugs – Tug Usage in Petroleum Ports............................................................... 49
6.3.4 Employment of tugs during towage ....................................................................................... 49
6.4 LINE HANDLING ............................................................................................................................ 49
6.4.1 Definitions .............................................................................................................................. 49
6.4.2 Use of line handlers ............................................................................................................... 50
6.4.3 License of Line handler/s Mooring Organizations ................................................................. 50
6.4.4 Identification of Line handlers................................................................................................ 50
7 LIABILITIES AND PENALTIES ........................................................................................................ 51
7.1 LIABILITIES ................................................................................................................................... 51
7.1.1 Liability for Pollution damage ................................................................................................ 51
7.1.2 Liability of permit holders ....................................................................................................... 51
7.1.3 Failure to pay charges ........................................................................................................... 51
7.1.4 Liability of Petroleum Ports Authority in respect of vessels within port ................................. 51
7.1.5 Liability for damage to or loss of Goods ................................................................................ 52
7.1.6 Law and jurisdiction ............................................................................................................... 52
7.2 PENALTIES................................................................................................................................... 52
7.2.1 Fines – general ...................................................................................................................... 52
7.2.2 Fines for violations not related to Safety and/or Pollution ..................................................... 52
7.2.3 Fines for violations of Safety Regulations ............................................................................. 52
7.2.4 Fines for violations of Pollution regulations ........................................................................... 52
8 ENFORCEMENT AND FINAL PROVISIONS................................................................................... 53
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8.1 ENFORCEMENT ............................................................................................................................ 53
8.1.1 Harbour Master’s Special Directions ..................................................................................... 53
8.1.2 Exemption/Deviation from the rules ...................................................................................... 53
8.1.3 Supervision / Powers of Petroleum Ports Authority officials ................................................. 53
8.1.4 Obligation to cooperate and to provide information .............................................................. 53
8.1.5 Admission of PPA Officials to spaces and places ................................................................. 54
8.1.6 Preventing departure and detention of a vessel .................................................................... 54
8.1.7 Appeal/Judicial Review ......................................................................................................... 54
8.2 FINAL PROVISIONS ....................................................................................................................... 54
8.2.1 Existing Documents ............................................................................................................... 54
8.2.2 Effective date ......................................................................................................................... 54
9 PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE CONVEYANCE OF PASSENGERS IN THE PORT ............... 55
9.1 APPLICATION ............................................................................................................................... 55
9.2 PERMIT REQUIREMENT ................................................................................................................. 55
9.3 CONSTRUCTION, OPERATION AND MANAGEMENT........................................................................... 55
9.4 INSURANCE COVERAGE................................................................................................................. 55
9.5 EMBARKATION AND DISEMBARKATION FACILITIES............................................................................ 55
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1 INTRODUCTION
These Regulations are issued in accordance with the Petroleum Ports Law No. 12 of 1973 and the
amending Laws No. 1, 3, 34 and 45 issued at Abu Dhabi on 27th February 1980, 28th April 1981, 5th
May 1985, and 4th November 2003 respectively. These Regulations shall apply to the Petroleum
Ports of Jebel Dhanna Ruwais, Das Zirku,and Mubarraz Port and any other Petroleum Port that
comes under the Petroleum Ports Authority.
The Regulations also include amendments to reflect law 24 of 1999 and those made for safety under
article 53 to date.
These Regulations are designed to acquaint Owners, Charterers, Masters of vessels, their Agents
and others with the general conditions, rules, regulations, facilities and available services at the
Petroleum Ports referred to in paragraph 1.1 below. Every vessel which arrives at any of the
Petroleum Ports must have a copy of these regulations board obtainable through the vessel’s agent
and/or on Petroleum Ports Authority website.
Every Master wishing to berth at any of the below Ports must contract to comply with all the rules and
regulations contained herein. These Regulations do not replace or modify official publications
covering the waters, areas, hazards or other subjects to which they pertain, nor are they intended for
such purposes. The information contained herein is believed to be accurate at the time of going to
press but neither ADNOC nor the Petroleum Ports Authority make any warranties and assume no
responsibilities regarding these Regulations or any other information which may appear in
supplemental publications, additions or corrections supplied by them.
1.1 Scope
i. These Regulations shall apply to the Petroleum Ports of Jebel Dhanna Ruwais, Das Zirku, and
Mubarraz Port and any other Petroleum Port/s that comes under the jurisdiction of Petroleum
Ports Authority and also to the waterways and fairways leading to / from these ports.
ii. Nothing in these Regulations shall be construed as over-riding :
 UAE Federal laws

 Law No. 8 of 1978 and No. 12 of 1973
 SOLAS 1974, Protocol 1978 and its’ subsequent amendments.
 MARPOL 1973 / 1978
 Any other applicable IMO conventions or any other international conventions as ratified by the
UAE.
iii. Nothing contained herein shall be construed as relieving the Master of any vessel from his
responsibility for safety of the vessel under his command.
iv. Port Regulations can be downloaded from the Petroleum Ports Authority website:
https://ppa.adnoc.ae
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2 GLOSSARY
In these Regulations the following words and expressions have the following meanings (except where
the subject or the context requires otherwise) without regard to whether the words are capitalized:
Term Definition
ADNOC Abu Dhabi National Oil Company – Defined as “Company” in Article 1.5
of Law 12 of 1973.
ADNOC Group ADNOC and each PERSON directly or indirectly CONTROLLED by
ADNOC.
ADNOC Group An Operating company wholly or partially owned by ADNOC.
Companies
ADNOC Group Shall mean the ship vetting policy issued by ADNOC as amended from
Ship Vetting time to time.
Policy
Agent Shall mean any person designated by a vessel / shipping company to act
on its behalf at the Petroleum port.
Shall mean Abu Dhabi MARINE OPERATIONS AND SERVICES
Company
ADNOC L&S
Shall mean a system of a type that has been tested and approved by a
Approved competent Petroleum Ports Authority such as a government agency
System representative or a classification society.
Shall mean the person appointed by the Petroleum Ports Authority to
execute, on its behalf, the duties of the Assistant Harbour Master and
Assistant shall include his assistants or subordinates who are, or may be, duly
Harbour Master authorized to act on his behalf. For the purposes of the law the title
Harbour Master and Assistant Harbour Master are interchangeable.
Shall mean any lighter, tugboat, motorboat, rowboat including fishing
Boat boats, barge, vessel equipped with lifting gear, wooden Boat, sailboat or
any other vessel, other than tankers, which does not exceed one hundred
net registered tons.
Additional Additional services shall include but not be limited to :
Services
 Diving services
 Vessel to Vessel transfer services
 Garbage collection, removal and disposal
 Emergency services including but not limited to:
 Fire fighting
 Oil spill response services
 Salvage to protect ADNOC assets
 Search and rescue services
 Repairs to AtN
 Wreck removal
 Towage assistance other than towage for berthing/un berthing
 Procurement services
 Safety inspections Transfer or personnel/equipment.
Bare or Naked Shall mean anything which may cause ignition of inflammable gases.
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Lights This shall include but not be limited to flame, fire, open lights, mobile
telephones, other electrical equipment not classed as either Intrinsically
Safe or explosion proof. Manual and mechanical equipment which may
produce sparks shall be treated as bare lights.
Bunkers Means inflammable liquids intended for the propulsion and the auxiliary
operation of a sea-going vessels, as well as liquids used for the
lubrication of vessels machinery / equipment.
Cargo All kinds of goods or products loaded into or unloaded from a vessel.
Cleaning Every act directed to or in connection with gas freeing, cleaning or drying
on board any part of a vessel.
Company Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC).
Combustible Any liquid with a flash point below or equal to 60deg C.

Liquids
Conditions of Mean the extracts of the Port Regulations which every Master is obliged
Use to sign before his Vessel enters any Petroleum Port. The Conditions of
Use are incorporated herein and are available on the following hyperlink.
ADNOC-B&CSD-PP ADNOC-B&CSD-PP
A-514 CONDITIONS OF
A-524
USEVESSEL
FOR VESSEL(S),
DECLARATION
CRAFT(S)
BY MASTER.pdf
and RIG(s) INVOLVED IN MARINE PROJEC
Craft Any vessel/boat, that may operate within the limits of a port and includes
but is not limited to fishing vessels, tugs, mooring boats, pilot boats,
rowing and pleasure boats.
Danger Area An area of defined dimensions of a port so declared by the Petroleum
Ports Authority which is considered dangerous for navigation.
Shall include all cargo considered to be dangerous by decision of the
Dangerous Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources as well as those cargoes
Cargo defined as dangerous by the IMO.
Dangerous Any substance that may cause danger of explosion, fire, corrosion,
Goods poisoning, intoxication or radiation, as mentioned in the International
Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, the (International) Code for the
Construction and Equipment of vessels carrying Dangerous Chemicals in
Bulk, the (International) Code for the Construction and Equipment of
vessels carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk of the International Maritime
Organization and, also, any other substance designated and published
as a dangerous substance by Petroleum Ports Authority;
The Petroleum Ports Authority shall be the sole Petroleum Ports
Authority to determine goods as dangerous whenever a dispute arises.
Exempted Vessel Shall mean vessels exempted from pilotage whose master has been
granted a Pilotage Exemption Certificate by the Harbour Master.
Shall mean Vessels excepted from paying Port Charges. Excepted

vessels shall include the following Vessels:
 Vessels of the U. A. E. Defence Forces.
 Vessels belonging to UAE Customs, Medical and Police Services.
 Dredgers, survey Vessels and special ancillary non-cargo Boat on
Excepted Vessel contract to the Petroleum Ports Authority or Company.
 Vessels and vessels excepted from such charges by order of H.H.
The Ruler.
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Shall mean anything that facilitates navigation such as lights, buoys,
Facilities signs, moorings and ancillary facilities.
Flash Point The flash point of a volatile material is the lowest temperature at which
vapours of the material will ignite, given an ignition source. The flash
point of a liquid as determined by the Pensky-Martens instrument using a
closed cup calculation.
Shall include such area as may be determined as forbidden by decision
Forbidden Area of the Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources or CICPA.
Goods Mean containers, items within the containers and cargo carried on deck.
Government Vessels owned by UAE Naval forces, CICPA.

Vessels
Harbour Shall mean the area determined by decision of the Minister of Petroleum
& Industry for each petroleum port, as defined herein.
Harbour Master The person thus appointed by the Company (As defined in article 1.5 of
law 12/1973) to represent the Petroleum Ports Authority [see earlier
comment]. The Harbour Master is defined in Article 1.17 of Law No 12
of 1973. shall mean the person appointed by the Petroleum Ports
Authority [see earlier comment] to execute, on its behalf, the duties of the
Harbour Master and shall include his assistants or subordinates who are,
or may be, duly authorized to act on his behalf. For the purposes of the
law the title Harbour Master and Assistant harbour Master are
interchangeable.
A “hazardous area” is defined as an area in which the atmosphere
contains, or may contain in sufficient quantities, flammable or explosive
Hazardous Area gases, dusts or vapours.
Shall mean any work involving the use of naked lights, in particular,
electric welding arcs, welding and cutting torches, blow lamps and other
Hot Work electrical or mechanical instruments liable to cause sparks or flame.
Shall include, for instance, any pier, dock, building, structure, tank or
Installations storage place, any adjoining land, berth or pipeline, and any equipment
and machines used in connection therewith.
An electric circuit or part of a circuit is intrinsically safe if any spark
Intrinsically Safe produced normally or accidentally is incapable, under prescribed test
conditions, of igniting a prescribed gas mixture.
ISGOTT
International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and Terminals
Legal Person Means any individual, corporation, joint stock company, limited liability
company, partnership, joint venture, association, trust, unincorporated
organisation, governmental authority, or other entity.
License ‘’License’’ means any License to provide pilotage, towing, mooring and
unmooring services (Linesmen) or other services granted under the
these Regulations.
Shall mean the person designated by the Terminal to remain on board a
vessel whilst she is at a terminal berth/SPM to execute the instructions
issued to him by the Terminal to ensure the safety and security of the
Loading Master vessel and terminal. The loading Master is a duly authorized marine
representative of the Terminal. His duties include supervision of loading
arm / hoses connection/disconnection and cargo operations.
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Marine Assets Any port equipment or craft used for the purpose of embarking,
disembarking, transporting, or loading and unloading goods into or from
vessels or vehicles and includes but Is not limited to tugs, mooring boats
and pilot boats.
Marine Services Marine services include Pilotage, Towage and Line handling.
Maritime International form (World Health Organization) declaring the health

Declaration of condition of the crew members (including the Master) and of the
Health passengers, to be rendered by the Master of Vessels arriving from
foreign ports.
Navigation Shall mean a license issued to National or International Vessels to
License operate in UAE territorial waters by the National Transport Petroleum
Ports Authority.
Noxious Noxious liquid substance means any substance indicated in the

Substances Pollution Category column of chapter 17 or 18 of the International Bulk
Chemical Code or provisionally assessed under the provisions of
regulation 6.3 as falling into category X, Y or Z.
1. Category X: Noxious liquid substances which, if discharged into the
sea from tank cleaning or deballasting operations, are deemed to
present a major hazard to either marine resources or human health and,
therefore, justify the prohibition of the discharge into the marine
environment;
2. Category Y: Noxious liquid substances which, if discharged into the
present a hazard to either marine resources or human health or cause
harm to amenities or other legitimate uses of the sea and therefore
justify a limitation on the quality and quantity of the discharge into the
marine environment;
3. Category Z: Noxious liquid substances which, if discharged into the
present a minor hazard to either marine resources or human health and
therefore justify less stringent restrictions on the quality and quantity of
the discharge into the marine environment;
4. Other substances: Substances indicated as OS (Other substances) in
the pollution category column of chapter 18 of the International Bulk
Chemical Code which have been evaluated and found to fall outside
category X, Y or Z as defined in regulation 6.1 of this Annex because
they are, at present, considered to present no harm to marine resources,
human health, amenities or other legitimate uses of the sea when
discharged into the sea from tank cleaning or de ballasting operations.
The discharge of bilge or ballast water or other residues or mixtures
containing only substances referred to as ‘‘Other Substances’’ shall not
be subject to any requirements of the Annex.
OCIMF Oil Companies International Marine Forum
Other Means all other Craft and Boats not already defined.
Boats/Small
Vessels
Packaged Goods in bales, bags, drums, tins, containers, cartons, bundles, pallets or
Goods other receptacles of a similar nature.
Permit A document issued by the Petroleum Ports Authority officially sanctioning
an activity. These include but are not limited to Craft Entry Permits, Hot
Work Permits, Diving Permits, Marine Project Commissioning Permits.
Permission A verbal or written authorization issued by the Harbour Master on his
designate sanctioning an activity. Verbal authorizations are to be
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accompanied by written entries in official records such as Port operation
log books.
Petroleum Ports The entity assigned as such by the Company bestowed with the tasks
Authority specified in Article 1 of the ADNOC administrative order no. 47/86.
Pilot A qualified person licensed by the Petroleum Ports Authority to assist the
Master of a vessel when approaching or leaving a port or manoeuvring
within the Petroleum port.
Pollution Pollution is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment
that cause adverse change it is also defined as any alteration of the
environment caused by discharging waste, chemicals, hazardous
substance or other pollutants in a manner which creates a hazard or
potential hazard to human beings, biodiversity, or the socio-economic
conditions.
Port A port as referred to in Article 1.15 of Law no 12 of 1973 shall mean the
area determined by decision of the Minister of petroleum & Industry and
shall include all installations & facilities which are or may be erected
therein. ( As described in Article 3.1.2 hereof).
Shall mean the responsible physician or any person empowered to act
for him, who is appointed to watch over health matters at the port and
Port Health execute the laws in force regarding public health, including quarantine
Officer laws affecting persons and animals, etc.
Shall mean the charges levied on vessels by the Government of Abu
Port Dues Dhabi in accordance with Law No.
(2) of 1972, as it’s amended by Law No. (2) of 1984.
Port Charges Shall mean the charges levied on all Vessels for Port Services as
decided by the Petroleum Ports Authority.
Shall mean the office responsible for all vessel traffic movements
Port Control within the port limits and the implementation of the Harbour Master’s
instructions pertaining to the management of the Port.
Port Services Port Services means the Marine services and additional services as
defined above.
Prohibited Area Means an area defined by the Petroleum Ports Authority within which the
navigation of a vessel or any other activity is prohibited.
Restricted Area Means an area defined by the Petroleum Ports Authority within which the
navigation of a vessel or any other activity is restricted in accordance with
certain specified conditions.
Seaworthiness A seaworthy vessel is tight, staunch, and strong, properly manned,
provided with all necessary stores, and in all respects fit for the intended
voyage.
Shall mean an area sheltered by the adjacent land, breakwater and
surroundings with limited depth of water that provides loading and
Service Harbour unloading facilities, shelter and refuge for smaller size vessels. A Service
Harbour may be man-made, natural or a combination of both. It may
consist of jetties, slipways or ramp, buildings or warehouses and a
transport system.
Vessel’s Master Shall mean the Captain or his duly authorized deputy or any person who
or Master for the time being is in charge of that vessel.
Tanker Shall mean a vessel designed to carry any hydrocarbon products or its
liquid/gas derivatives.
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Terminal Berth Shall mean any berth constructed for the loading/ discharging of
petroleum and petroleum derivatives, and shall include anything
connected therewith, including pipelines and any ancillary equipment or
facilities.
Terminal Safety Shall mean person(s) appointed by a Terminal to be responsible for the
Officers/ safety of cargo operations at the various berths within the Port.
Terminal
Superintendent
Shall mean ADNOC - Petroleum Ports Authority, a part of Abu Dhabi
The Company National Oil Company (ADNOC).
Tow Shall mean push, pull or propel in whatever manner in the custom of the
trade.
Shall mean any vessel so designed as to be able to tow any other vessel
Tug as well as any vessel engaged in towing any other vessel whether so
designed or not.
Vessel Shall mean the general term for all vessels, crafts and boats visiting the
port.
VTIS Shall mean Vessel Traffic Information services.
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3 GENERAL PROVISIONS
3.1 Administrative Provisions
3.1.1 Title
These Regulations may be cited as “ADNOC-Petroleum Ports Authority Port Regulations 2017”.
3.1.2 Port Limits
For the purposes of these regulations the Ports mentioned in paragraph 1 shall mean all waters and
installations within the limits described hereafter:
i. Jebel Dhanna / Ruwais Port Limits
To mean all waters inside the below listed coordinates to the coast up to the Spring High Water Mark,
and shall include all jetties wharves, structures, sea-berths, reefs, rocks and sand-bars and islands,
excluding Sir Bani Yas Island, within the said area.
Description Latitude Longitude Note

From (a) 24° 07.7' N 052° 48.20' E
To (b) 24° 11.00' N 052° 48.20' E
To (c) 24° 11.00' N 052° 46.60' E
To (d) 24° 26.80' N 052° 46.60' E
To (e) 24° 26.80' N 052° 33.60' E
To (f) 24° 20.80' N 052° 33.60´ E
To (g) 24° 17.00' N 052° 38.00' E
To (h) 24° 11.80' N 052° 36.50' E
ii. Das Zirku Island Port Limits
To mean all waters encompassed by a line joining the following positions, including all jetties,
wharves, structures, sea berths, reefs, and-bars, and islands within the said area:
Description Latitude Longitude Note

From (a) 25° 14.10' N 052° 48.10' E Then Due E
To (b) 25° 14.10' N 052° 57.10' E Then due S
To (c) 25° 09.00' N 052° 57.10' E Then due SE
To (d) 24° 56.90' N 053° 11.10' E Then due S
To (e) 24° 49.00' N 053° 11.10' E Then due W
To (f) 24° 49.00' N 053° 04.90’ E Then due NW
To (g) 25° 00.10' N 052° 53.40’ E Then due NW
To (h) 25° 04.60' N 052° 48.10' E To point (a)
iii. Mubarraz Island Terminal – Port Limits
To mean all waters encompassed by a line joining the following positions:
Description Latitude Longitude

From (a) 24° 30.0 N 053° 36.0 E
To (b) 24° 24.0 N 053° 36.0 E
To (c) 24° 24.0 N 053° 27.0 E
To (d) 24° 26.7 N 053° 21.7 E
To (e) 24° 30.0 N 053° 21.7 E
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3.1.3 General Provisions pertaining to all licences, permissions and permits
i. The Petroleum Ports Authority may grant Licenses under certain restrictions and on the basis of
compliance with certain rules. The restrictions and rules may only serve to protect the interest of
the Company.
ii. The Petroleum Ports Authority may issue a provisional or partial License for a limited duration
and under specific conditions in order to allow a License holder time to build up its organization,
resources, materials and equipment to meet up with the required standards as set out by
Petroleum Ports Authority.
iii. The Petroleum Ports Authority may attach a period of validity as it deems fit to any License or
Permit.
iv. Verbal permission may be granted for a once-only conduct or act.
v. The oral issuance of a Permit shall be entered in writing in a log by the issuing individual and
communicated to the management.
vi. Granting a License or Permit is normally done in writing.
vii. A License or Permit may not be issued if it is in conflict with one or more interests protected under
these Regulations, in particular for reasons of order or safety in the Port.
viii. The issuance of a License or Permit may be withdrawn if payment due for that Permit or Licence
has not been received
ix. The issuance of a License or Permit to replace an expiring License or Permit may be refused, if it
is proved that during the last period of validity, no use or only limited use of the Licence or Permit
concerned was made.
x. A Permit/ License may be suspended partially or in whole or may be withdrawn partially or in

whole for the remaining part of the validity if the requirements specified by the Petroleum Ports
Authority are not met.
3.1.4 No transfer of licenses and permits
i. No License or Permit may be transferred or assigned or otherwise used by any person other than
the named license or permit holder.
ii. The merger, transfer of shares of the holder of the License or Permit or any other method that in
fact constitutes the sale, transfer or merger of a company to or with another owner shall be
considered as transfer of that License or Permit to another person.
iii. In such cases the Petroleum Ports Authority may choose to withdraw and reissue the License or
Permit.
3.1.5 Obligations of holders of licenses or permits
i. The holder of a License or Permit shall show the Licence or Permit or an authentic.
ii. The holder of a License or Permit shall, when providing services as enlisted within the License or
Permit, observe the restrictions and rules attached thereto.
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3.2 Tariffs
3.2.1 Port tariffs
i. The Petroleum Ports Authority may establish tariffs for any services (Marine &/or additional)
rendered in a Port.
The tariff publication shall state:
 the tariff;
 the natural or legal person(s) liable to pay the tariffs
 the possible exemptions;
 the subject of the tariff;
 the event for which the tariff will be due;
 the standard for the tariff;
 the method of levying;
 the starting time of the tariff;
 the time of ending the tariff;
 the terms of payment;
 the person or organization charged with the collection of the tariff;
 the increase in the amount due and any fines that may be imposed in case of not declaring,
non-payment, late payment and other violations of the tariff arrangement;
 the documents to be presented;
 all other provisions of importance for the establishment of the amounts due and for the
collection thereof.
ii. The tariffs may be levied by way of advance payment or any other method acceptable to the
3.2.2 Tariffs of service providers in port
The Petroleum Ports Authority shall from time to time establish and publish tariffs for services in a
Port, such as tug services, pilot services, line handling, cargo handling supervision, taking into
account a reasonable ratio/balance between the amount of services rendered, the effort and
investments needed to be able to render those services and the tariff.
3.2.3 Payment of Port Charges
The Owner, Master and Agent of every Vessel using a Petroleum Port are jointly and severally liable
to pay the Petroleum Ports Authority, prior to entry into such Port, all applicable Port Charges and
Port Dues in respect of that Vessel as prescribed in the schedule of Port Charges.
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If one of the persons mentioned in this Article has complied with this obligation, no further obligation
shall rest on the other persons.
3.2.4 Port clearance
The Owner, Master or Agent of every Vessel wishing to leave the Port shall obtain port
clearance from the Petroleum Ports Authority and/or Harbour Master. Port clearance may be
withheld from any Vessel by the Harbour Master for non-payment of Port Charges, for any
violations of the provisions of the Laws and Regulations, or for any legal cause or restraint which
has been duly ordered by the Court in Abu Dhabi.
3.2.5 Schedule of Tariffs
i. General
The Owner, charterer or Agent of any Vessel, other than Excepted Vessels who requires such
Vessel to enter the Port, regardless of the purpose, must pay in advance, Port Charges to the
Petroleum Ports Authority in accordance with the scale of charges set forth in this Article. The
single port charge per Vessel, per visit, is levied for the following Port Services, supplied relative
to a Vessel’s size and its business in the Port.
 Pilots and pilot launches
 Maintenance of navigable channels and anchorages
 Navigation aids for the approaches to the port from Outer Fairway inwards to the port and its
limits.
 Navigation aids for the port channels anchorage areas and berths
 Port tugs for one berthing and one un-berthing
 Mooring launches and gangs for one berthing and one un-berthing
 Port Control office and services
 Tidal, meteorological and navigational data
 Port emergencies and Safety
 Port security
ii. Port Charges
 Vessels of ≥ 4,500 NRT
The charges for any Vessel of 4,500 NRT and above which enters and berths at a terminal will
be calculated by multiplying the Gross Registered Tonnage (GRT) of that Vessel by an amount in
UAE Dirhams as determined from time to time by the Petroleum Ports Authority.
 Vessels of < 4,500 NRT
The charge for any Vessel of less than 4,500 NRT which enters and berths at a terminal or cargo
wharf will be a “minimum fixed charge” as determined from time to time by the Petroleum Ports
Authority.
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iii. Shifting Charges
Shifting charges for Vessels will be levied for each shifting i.e. from berth to anchorage or
vice versa or berth to berth as determined from time to time by the Petroleum Ports Authority.
iv. Charges for Delays
Charges for delays to Pilot/Marine Services, etc. Whenever a Pilot is delayed after the stated
time of berthing/un-berthing due to a Vessel being not ready to proceed for whatsoever
reason through any fault of the Vessel, Vessel’s Agent or terminal a charge for such delays
will be levied against the Vessel or terminal per hour or part thereof at a rate equivalent to the
hourly Pilot or Tug rate or both or part thereof.
v. Country Boats
Country Boats i.e. vessels less than 100 NRT will be charged a nominal standard port levy as
prescribed in the scale of charges hereof.
vi. Charges for Vessels not carrying out cargo operations
Any Vessel which anchors within the designated anchorage areas after completion of cargo
operations will be charged as per charges specified in 3.2.6.
vii. Special Marine Services - Ruwais Port only
ADNOC Logistics & Services’s hire rates for special marine services, e.g. diving and outside
port limits chartering are available on request from the Port Control, Various standard hire
rates are indicated below for information.
viii. Fire- fighting Tug Surcharge
A surcharge for a standby fire-fighting tug is to be applied to all vessels using fixed jetties at
Petroleum Ports, the surcharge shall beas determined from time to time by the Port
3.2.6 Current Port Charges
The following charges will be levied upon Vessels entering the Ports as from 04th September 2016,
in accordance with the Port Regulations. All charges are in UAE Dirhams and are subject to change
and/or amendment in which case an up-dated Port Charges schedule will be issued
S. No. DESCRIPTION AED

All vessels over 4,500 NRT loading / discharging cargo pay
1 1.40
a single charge in advance per GRT.
All vessels 100 to 4,500 NRT loading / discharging cargo
2 pay a minimum fixed charge in advance per visit. 6000
3 Passenger Vessels (Fixed charges) 25,300
Detention of pilot / services (per hour or part thereof):
4 a. For vessels requiring tug for berthing / Un berthing 2500
b. For other vessels 500
Extra charge for shifting vessels per single shift, within a

8500
5 maximum of two hours.
Additional time for shifting to be pro-rated
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6 11.00 /MT
Slop discharges as per MARPOL 73/78 Requirements
4400
Engine Room Bilges disposal / 2 hours alongside
1100
7
For each hour or part thereof over and above 2 hours
500
8 Garbage discharge as per MARPOL 73/78 Requirements or
subsequent revision per skip
4050
Surcharge for Vessels berthing on the fixed jetty structure
9
per visit (Stand by Fire-Fighting Tug)
1500
A single port entry charge levied for each boat, craft or barge
10
over 100 NRT, per visit.
350
A single port entry charge levied for each boat, craft or barge
11
under 100 NRT, per visit.
12 1500
A single port entry charge levied for a tug and tow per visit
Pilotage Exempted Vessels

3000
13 a. Masters Pilot Exemption Certificate for one year
3000
b. Renewal
Additional Charges For Extra Services (Charge Per Hour)
a. Pilot Service 500
b. Pilot Boat 2000

14
c. Mooring Launch 2000
d. Tug 3000
The above charges are doubled on Fridays and UAE Public Holidays
Berthage service charges in service harbour at Ruwais – (charge per day)
a. Berthage – Vessel / Barge less than 100 GRT 500
15 b. Berthage – Vessel / Barge from 100 to 500 GRT 1500
c. Berthage – Vessel / Barge more than 500 GRT 2500
Berthage service charges in service harbour at Das Zirku – (charge per day)
16 Berthage Charge in Service Harbour 500

Bunkering charges at Ruwais, Das Zirku - Additional charges applies if
bunkering required after working hours
a. Diesel ADNOC FOD Price
17 +25 %
b. Water 0.15 per Imp. Gallon
18 Transit Storage Charges At Ruwais, Das And Zirku – (Charge Per Day)
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Min 500 AED +
5 AED per
Storage Charge – Transit holding area metric Ton of
Cargo or AED 5
per one (1) M3
whichever is
higher
Special services at Ruwais, Das Zirku.

On Quotation
a. Diving Services
19 On Quotation
b. Labor Hire
On Quotation
c. Equipment Hire
On Quotation
d. Maintenance / Repair
Miscellaneous Charges At Jebel Dhanna Ruwais & Das Zirku
a. Port Clearance Certificate 300
b. Vessel’s Inspection by Petroleum Ports Authority 1000

20
c. Port Security Officer’s Inspection to furnish Declaration Of 4000
Security
d. Marine Project Commissioning Permit 1500
e. Craft Entry Permit 700
f. Diving Permit 500
g. Hot work Permit 500

h. Charges for Vessels anchored at designated anchorage
First 24 hours free,
areas after completion of cargo operations.
After that
5 fils/ GRT/ Day or
part thereof
Items b & c are doubled on Fridays and UAE Public Holidays
3.2.7 Port Dues (Oil Tax)
Law No. (2) of 1972 as amended by Law No. (2) of 1984.
Port Dues (Oil Tax) will be levied in the amount of AED 1.00 per ton of gross registered tonnage
of each Tanker that is loaded with hydrocarbon substances or any other substances at the Ports or
petroleum loading centres in Abu Dhabi Emirate.
The Port Dues (Oil Tax) in relation to any Tanker that loads at Ports or petroleum loading centres
in Abu Dhabi a load of hydrocarbon substances which is less than the f u l l s um m er deadweight
tonnage of the tanker, will be determined by calculating the amount of Cargo actually loaded as a
percentage of the deadweight tonnage of the Tanker and by applying the above rate with reference to
the following table:
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Percentage of summer deadweight tonnage loaded vs percentage
of dutiable gross tonnage
Percentage of GRT to be
Percentage of Summer Deadweight Loaded
applied For Port Dues
From 0 To 40 40% of the GRT
More than 40 To 50 50% of the GRT
More than 90 100% of the GRT
However, in the event that the Tanker is loaded with a part Cargo of hydrocarbon materials from two
or more Ports, or from two or more loading centres in Abu Dhabi during the same voyage, the
Vessel is not committed to pay Port Dues (Oil Tax) whose total exceeds the percentage due on the
total quantity loaded.
Tankers which use any P o r t facility for the express purpose of purchasing any kind of fuel for
use in such Tankers shall be exempted from payment of such Port Dues (Oil Tax). This exemption
will apply for one year with effect from the date of promulgation of the law and is automatically
renewable for additional periods of one year each unless exemption is amended or cancelled.
Throughout the period of exemption, the Tanker shall remain liable to pay all o t h e r dues,
rates and all other items for which it was liable prior to promulgation of this law.
3.3 Reporting, Notification
3.3.1 Reporting and Procedural Requirements
i. The Master, owner, charterer and/or Agent of any Vessel calling at the Port are jointly and severally
required to ensure that the Petroleum Ports Authority is notified of:
 The expected time of arrival of the Vessel at the Port, at least 72 hours prior to arrival along
with the Pre Arrival Questionnaire for the relevant Terminal (as available on the Petroleum
Ports Authority website), updated 48 hours 24 and 12 hours prior to arrival).
 The presence of Dangerous Goods or Noxious Substances on board, at least 72 hrs prior to
arrival and subsequently forty-eight hours before arrival – see Article 3.3.3.
 The presence of any fumigating gas in the Cargo at least 24 hours before arrival.
 A planned change of berth of the vessel, at least three hours before commencement of such a
change.
 Expected departure 4 hours prior completion of cargo operations.
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 Any defects in or damage to the Vessel, equipment or items, or any other circumstance on
board which may impact the safe navigation of the Vessel or may endanger the safety or
wellbeing of person(s), property or environment in or outside the Port, immediately after these
circumstances have become apparent to him.
 Any incidents /accidents and/or damages caused to the Port, to his own or other Vessels or to
property during navigation towards, or from the Port, berthing, un berthing or other activities
whilst within the Port, immediately after these circumstances have become apparent – see also
Article 3.3.5.
 the existence or the suspicion of the existence of infectious or epidemic disease on board at
least 72 hours prior to arrival or if the suspicion arises later, immediately upon discovery.
 the arrival of the Vessel from areas suspected of infectious or epidemic disease, at least 72
hours before arrival, other data required by the Harbour Master in connection with the Vessels
presence in the Port.
ii. In order to expedite Pilot attendance, Masters shall confirm their final E.T.A. to Port Control on
V.H.F. radio, four hours prior to arrival at the pilot station.
iii. The Master of a Vessel requesting medical aid or emergency assistance must give notice
immediately prior arrival, if necessary by VHF.
iv. The reports referred to in para (i) shall be in writing and in conformity to the model(s) issued by
the Petroleum Ports Authority as modified from time to time.
v. If any one of the persons mentioned in paragraph i has complied with the obligation in paragraph
i, no further obligation shall rest on the other persons.
3.3.2 Specific Reporting - Dangerous Goods and Noxious Substances
The Master of a Vessel or the Vessel’s/Owner’s/Charterer’s agent shall 72 hrs before arriving at the
Port, and subsequently forty-eight hours before arrival, submit the following documents to the
Harbour Master.
i. Manifest: Dangerous good manifest confirming that loading and stowage of such Dangerous
Goods was completed in a proper and safe manner, which they were packed as stipulated
under: “International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code – IMDG Code” and that special markings
were affixed to it.
ii. Dangerous Goods notes in an IMO approved format (includes the quantity, load, type and
source of loading and the port of discharge.)
iii. Stowage plan.
The Petroleum Ports Authority may refuse entry if all the required documents have not been
submitted / presented to the Harbour Master in the required format.
3.3.3 Specific Reporting - Radioactive Substances
The Master of a Vessel that is carrying or intends to carry a radioactive substance shall ensure that
when notifying the expected time of arrival in a Port, the following data are also notified to the
Petroleum Ports Authority:
i. the name of the radioactive nuclide(s) (chemical symbol and mass number);
ii. the activity of the radioactive substance in the appropriate units;
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iii. the category of the package (namely Category I WHITE, Category II YELLOW, Category III
YELLOW);
iv. the transport index (only for packages with YELLOW labels);
v. the gross quantity in kilograms, the type of packing and the number of packages.
vi. The Petroleum Ports Authority/Harbour Master has the right to refuse entry to a Vessel if it is not
satisfied with the information provided or considers that the radioactive substances pose a threat
or potential threat to the Port.
3.3.4 Reporting of Incidents and Failures on Board
i. When handling a Cargo on board, the Master shall ensure that any operating failure on board
connected with the cargo handling and potentially affecting safety, the environment or otherwise
influencing the order and safety in port, is notified to the Harbour Master immediately.
ii. Vessel’s Master shall immediately inform the Harbour Master and if present the Loading Master
or representative of the installation/terminal of:
 any damage caused by their Vessels to any port installations or facilities,
 any loss, discharge, spill, release or escape of the Vessel’s contents or equipment within the
Port.
iii. All cases of Injury affecting the operational capacities of the Vessel or causing death.
3.3.5 Obligation for Vessel Owner and Representative to Report
The obligations, as mentioned in the Articles 3.3.1, to and including 3.3.6, also apply to the owner,
Agent and the charterer of a Vessel and their representative, jointly and severally.
3.3.6 Notification
i. The above notifications to the Petroleum Ports Authority, shall be addressed to the respective
Harbour Master of the Port and shall be in the format prescribed by the Petroleum Ports
Authority.
ii. All notifications shall be made in writing, electronically by e-mail.
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4 ORDER IN PORT, MARITIME ORDER, AND GENERAL MARITIME SAFETY
4.1 General Obligations, entry into the port, objects in port
4.1.1 Duty to have an agent in port
The Master, Vessel owner and/or Charterer of a Vessel intending to enter a Port shall have a duly
authorized Agent at the Port. Such Agent shall represent the Vessel, the vessel-owner, Master and
charterer.
4.1.2 Traffic rules
i. The International Collision Regulations (COLREGS) apply to all Vessels using the Port. The
Petroleum Ports Authority may, for the purpose of order and safety in the harbour, issue traffic
rules for the Port and amend these traffic rules as and when it deems fit. These rules will
supplement but not be in contravention of COLREGS.
ii. It is prohibited, to act in violation of a rule and the corresponding instructions, referred to in
paragraph (i), unless permission has been granted in writing by the Harbour Master.
4.1.3 Port Approaches - Marks and Lights
Approaches to the Petroleum Ports shall be indicated by such lights, buoys and marks as the
Petroleum Ports Authority may consider appropriate.
4.1.4 Placement of objects / construction of facilities
i. It is prohibited, to have, to construct or place any facility or object in, under or above water, unless
it concerns:
 Ropes, cables, chains or other similar appliances for the purpose of mooring, anchoring, towing
or assisting a vessel and which are in use as such
 Gangways and other similar appliances, not of permanent nature
 Gantries, runways, cranes, suspended or floating platforms or other similar appliances, when in
service or marked to the effect that no hazard, damage or hindrance will occur.
ii. The prohibition of paragraph (i) does not apply to any act in accordance with a permit issued by
the Harbourmaster.
4.1.5 Removal of projections
The Master of a Vessel shall ensure that any projections that may cause damage to a quay wall, pier,
jetty, or equipment, or may interfere with the loading or unloading of other vessels, are removed prior
to entry into a Port, failing which the Owners and/or Charterers of the Vessel shall be liable for all
damage occurring and the cost of repairs and, upon the grant of an order from the Abu Dhabi Courts
or other competent authority, will be not be permitted to sail without first putting in place a bank
guarantee acceptable to the Petroleum Ports Authority or, in their sole discretion, an acceptable P&I
Club letter of undertaking. Irrespective of a Court or other order detaining the Vessel, the Owners
and/or Charterers and/or Agent will nevertheless be required to put in place a bank guarantee
acceptable to the Petroleum Ports Authority or, in their sole discretion, an acceptable Protection &
Indemnity (P&I) Club letter of undertaking by way of security.
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4.1.6 Permission to enter a port
i. The Master of a Vessel shall not enter a Port without the prior permission of the Harbour Master
of the relevant Port.
ii. The Harbour Master may refuse entry into a Port to any Vessel that in his opinion does not
comply with the Petroleum Ports Authority’s admission requirements.
4.1.7 A/C System
As the local weather is extremely hot and humid in summer, all Vessels must have an efficient A/C
system to maintain the temperature inside the accommodation not exceeding 25° C.
4.1.8 Tank Atmosphere
i. All tankers arriving at any Petroleum Ports must ensure that all cargo tanks are in in inert
condition with oxygen contents of less than 8%, unless they are carrying specific cargoes that do
not require an inert atmosphere, in which case they must obtain Harbour Masters approval prior
to entry. This must be brought to the Harbour Masters attention during the Pre arrival formalities.
ii. In case the tanker is carrying multiple grades, the most stringent requirement shall apply to all
cargo tanks.
iii. All Vessels shall operate under closed loading conditions.
4.1.9 Hydrogen Sulphide
i. Vessels arriving as first loading port shall have all tanks purged to ensure a residual tank
atmosphere with as less Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) as possible, but in no case more than 5ppm
H2S upon arrival.
ii. Where Vessels arrive partly loaded with crude oil(s), they shall take all reasonable measures to
avoid contaminating the atmosphere of any unloaded tanks with H 2S. They shall purge the
atmosphere in all empty tanks nominated for loading to ensure a residual tank atmosphere with
as less H2S as possible, but in no case more than 5ppm H2S upon arrival.
iii. The maximum allowed H2S concentration on the open deck at any time is 5 ppm by volume.
iv. The Vessel should at all times follow the guidelines of ISGOTT Edition 5 and must consult with
the Loading Master in regards to safety and venting arrangements.
4.1.10 Permit for Marine projects within Port Areas
i. No projects within the Port shall be mobilized without HM’s authorization and marine permit.
ii. The Harbour Master may order the removal of any Vessel from the Port if such Vessel is not
undertaking or engaged in a marine project on behalf of a company with the Group of
Companies operating within the Port, or if the Vessel violates any of the provisions hereof.
4.1.11 Compliance with ADNOC Group Ship Vetting Policy
All Tankers must have received a positive vetting result within the ADNOC Ship Vetting system
before entering the Port. Other Boats / Crafts must have received a positive vetting result within
the ADNOC Group Ship Vetting system and in addition must also have been granted permission to
enter the Port by the Harbour Master before entering the port limits. They should be in compliance
with the concerned ADNOC Group company acceptance Standard for Marine Vessels as available
with the respective Group Company.
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4.1.12 ETA and Pre Arrival Questionnaire
The Vessel's Master shall notify the Petroleum Ports Authority as per requirements in Article 3.3.1.
4.1.13 Animals
No animals shall be allowed on any Vessel using the Port or any installation.
4.1.14 Transiting boats
With due observance of the terms of the following Article, the Port shall be used only by Boats
operating under the Petroleum Ports Authority’s/Harbour Master’s directions and such Other
Boats/Small Vessels as are or may be authorized to do so after obtaining a Craft entry permit issued
by the Harbour Master.
4.1.15 Removal of Boats & small vessels
Boats and Small Vessels to which the terms of the preceding Article apply shall leave the Port when
required to do so by the Harbour Master. Where they are not in a condition which enables them to
sail, or where their Masters or owners fail to commence or complete the necessary repairs within a
reasonable period, the Petroleum Ports Authority may declare that such small vessels and
boats have come to constitute an obstruction in the sense intended hereof. In the event of an
obstruction, the Small Vessel/Boat may be removed by the Petroleum Ports Authority and the cost
recovered from the owner.
4.1.16 Prohibition and assignment of berthing
i. The Master shall not attempt to berth a Vessel or lay at a berth, unless
 The Vessel has been nominated by a ADNOC Group Company.

 A Pilot who is approved and licenced by the Petroleum Ports Authority is on board the Vessel.
 The Petroleum Ports Authority has granted permission for berthing.
ii. The Harbour Master may, in deviation of the first paragraph and in his sole discretion prohibit
berthing, staying at a berth or un berthing.
iii. No Vessel shall have the right to any particular berth or mooring, unless planning of operations,
nautical or technical requirements demand a particular berth. Formalities for export cargoes
The Agent of Vessel planned to carry export Cargo shall, before commencement of loading,
complete all necessary customs and other obligatory legal formalities for such shipment.
4.1.17 Immobilization of engine, readiness
The main engines of all Vessels shall always be kept ready for immediate use when a Vessel is
within the Port except with the express permission of the Harbour Master. In case of steam vessels,
steam pressure shall be maintained above the minimum necessary to maneuver such Vessels in case
of need. Testing of the engines alongside shall be subject to the express permission of the Harbour
Master.
4.1.18 Boilers
The flame of the boilers shall be maintained under control, and the pipes leading up to the funnels as
well as the boiler tubes shall not be drained except with the Harbour Master’s permission.
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4.1.19 Soot Blowing within Port Limits
In line with article 4.1.18 & article 5.2.10, No vessel shall carry out soot blowing with in port limits.
4.1.20 Crew
Vessel’s Masters shall at all times maintain on board a sufficient number of Ships crew to operate the
Vessel. Note that this may be more than that shown on the minimum manning certificate.
4.1.21 Shifting vessels
i. The Harbour Master may prohibit the shifting for reasons of safety and order.
ii. The Master of a Vessel shall not attempt to shift or change the berth without the prior permission
from the Harbour Master of the relevant Port.
iii. The Master of a Vessel is obliged to shift his Vessel to another berth when ordered to do so by
the Harbour Master for reasons of safety, order and any operational requirements, however if any
shifting is requested for same reasons by the Master of the vessel, the Harbour Master shall
assess such request and if agreed shall confirm the order in writing.
iv. Where paragraphs (ii) or (iii) are not being complied with, the Harbour Master shall seek the
assistance of the Critical Infrastructure Coastal Protection Authority (“CICPA”) in order to facilitate
the removal of such Vessel to such point and in such manner as the CICPA may deem proper.
The Owner of the Vessel and/or Master and or charterer shall be jointly and severally liable for, in
addition to charges for detention specified in 3.2.5(iv) above, all expenses incurred in the shifting
or removal of the Vessel.
4.1.22 Obstruction
If any Vessel, or seaplane or helicopter or other object sinks or grounds or otherwise becomes or
is likely to become in the opinion of the Harbour Master an obstruction or danger to navigation,
the Harbour Master will serve written notice on the owner/Master/Agent of the obstruction
requiring him to remove it within a specified number of days. If its owner, Master or his Agent
fails to remove the obstruction or danger so caused within the period specified in the written notice
served by the Harbour Master, then the owner, Master or Agent shall have committed a punishable
criminal offence under Articles 75,76 and 77 of Law 12/1973 and shall be liable to criminal sanctions
as appended in Law 12/1973, Article 75,76 and 77 This shall not prejudice the Harbour Master’s
right, for the sake of safe guarding the interest of the Port, to take action to remove the obstacle.
All expenses incurred arising out of or in connection with such removal shall be recoverable from the
Master or owners of the Vessel or seaplane or helicopter who shall jointly be liable thereof.
4.1.23 Wreck Removal
If, in the opinion of the Harbour Master, any Vessel or seaplane or helicopter sinks or grounds or
otherwise becomes an obstruction which constitutes an immediate danger to other Vessels and/or
surface navigation, he may take the necessary immediate measures to remove the obstruction
without the need for any notice and shall be entitled to recover from the persons mentioned in the
previous Article, any and all expenses, costs and fees howsoever incurred in the process of its
removal and may require the Owner, Master or charterer of any Vessel or owner of any seaplane or
helicopter to put in place a bank guarantee acceptable to the Petroleum Ports Authority or, at their
sole discretion, an acceptable Protection & Indemnity (P&I) Club letter of undertaking by way of
security.
4.1.24 Cargo and equipment on wrecks or in the water
The Harbour Master may act in the manner described in the two preceding articles in respect of
any Cargo, ropes, or equipment contained on any Vessel or seaplane or helicopter that has sunk,
grounded or otherwise. The Harbour Master may apply the same provisions to any Cargo, ropes or
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equipment which have fallen in any manner from any Vessel or seaplane or helicopter into the waters
of the Port.
4.1.25 Claims
The Petroleum Ports Authority shall not be liable for any claims howsoever arising out of or in
connection with the exercise of the powers conferred upon it by these Regulations, whether the
exercise of those powers was negligent or otherwise.
4.1.26 Salvage
i. Any unclaimed goods salvaged or discovered at any place within the Port shall be reported and
delivered to the Harbour Master, who shall take such goods into custody.
ii. No person shall salvage anything that has sunk in the Port unless expressly authorized to do so by
the Harbour Master.
iii. The person who has salvaged anything that has sunk in t h e Port shall have no recourse
against the Petroleum Ports Authority to obtain compensation for his labour unless the Petroleum
Ports Authority has agreed to his performance of the salvage operation.
iv. The owner of the salvaged goods may claim the same within a period not exceeding six months
from the date of delivery thereof to the Harbour Master, and he shall pay salvage costs and
storage expenses/costs as determined by the Harbour Master. Neither the Port Petroleum Ports
Authority nor the Harbour Master nor the Port accept any responsibility and shall not be liable for
any damage to the salvaged goods during any period of storage. The salvaged goods are stored at
the sole risk of the owner of those goods.
v. If the owner fails to claim his goods within the aforementioned period, the Port Petroleum Ports
Authority may sell the goods and keep the sale proceeds.
vi. Where the Harbour Master finds that the salvaged goods are perishable or that their value is less
than storage costs, he may order the sale thereof immediately in a manner that he deems
suitable.
4.1.27 Exceptional powers
The Harbour Master may forego the application of some of the previous provisions where public
interest so requires.
4.1.28 Additional measures
The Harbour Master may impose safety measures or additional restrictions for the protection and
safety of navigation, Vessels, crews, installations and personnel as he may deem necessary. He
shall communicate such measures in writing to Vessels’ Masters and other responsible persons who
shall be required to comply therewith immediately.
4.1.29 Port Officials Right to Board Vessel’s in Port
Vessel’s Master shall at all times permit the Harbour Master and others delegated by the Petroleum
Ports Authority to board their Vessels without restriction in order to verify compliance with these
Regulations or carry out other duties as specified from time to time.
4.2 Navigation, Use of the ports
4.2.1 Approaching and entering a port
i. Every Vessel within the Port between sunrise and sunset, shall fly her national flag and the
national flag of the UAE.
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ii. Vessels shall, at all times, comply with the International Code of Signals and display flags,
shapes and lights as required by the International Regulations for Preventing Collision at Sea.
iii. The Master of a Vessel entering or leaving a Port or manoeuvring in a Port shall not exceed a
speed suited to the characteristics of the relevant waterways or as determined by the Harbour
Master of the relevant Port. The speed restrictions for various channels is appended in the Port
Management procedures.
4.2.2 Free pratique / Health formalities
i. Prior to arrival from a foreign port, each Vessel must complete and submit a Maritime
Declaration of Health (part of the Pre arrival Questionnaire).
ii. Upon arrival at the outer anchorage, every Vessel shall exhibit the international signal
requesting free pratique.
iii. Provided that the Maritime Declaration of Health has been completed correctly and to the
satisfaction of the Pilot, free pratique will be granted by the Pilot upon his boarding.
iv. No Craft other than those carrying the Pilot or Port Health Officer may approach any Vessel
entering the Port and no other person may board any such Vessel until quarantine formalities
have been completed.
v. The terms of the preceding paragraphs shall not apply to Vessels that are suspected of
infection or are infected and/or under any orders or laws in force. Such Vessels shall be
subject to the rules governing quarantine for persons and animals and/or to the provision of
such orders or laws.
vi. A Vessel suspected of carrying an infectious disease or epidemic on board or arriving from
an area suspected of the same shall wait at the outer anchorage area of the Port until a
hygiene and health quarantine officer has embarked on the Vessel, assessed the situation
and provided his recommendations to the Harbour Master and/or PPA.
vii. Such Vessels shall be subject to the rules governing quarantine for persons and animals and
to the provision of such orders or law.
4.2.3 Potential danger, damage or hindrance from vessels
i. The Harbour Master may refuse to permit a Vessel to enter the Port with his Vessel to berth or
remaining at a berth if he is of the opinion that the Vessel brings or may bring serious danger,
cause damage or hindrance to others and/or to the safety of the Port and navigation within it.
ii. The prohibition shall be communicated in writing to the Master and/or his representative.
iii. The Master on whom the prohibition mentioned in the previous paragraphs has been imposed,
shall act in conformity with the same.
4.2.4 Priority of entering or leaving the port
Unless otherwise directed by the Harbour Master:
i. Except in case of an emergency, passenger vessels will have priority over and above all other
vessels navigating within the Port Limits.
ii. In all other circumstances a loaded vessel regardless of its direction of transit will have the priority
over a partially loaded vessel or a vessel in ballast.
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4.2.5 Safe Speed
Every Vessel within the Port shall navigate with safe speed as set out in the relevant Port
management procedures which Vessels should make themselves aware of and in a manner which
shall not endanger the safety of Port, its installations or other Vessels. In particular, special care and
caution must be observed in the vicinity of Vessels that are:
 Sailing, towing, being towed, mooring, unmooring, anchoring, weighing anchor, moving towards
or away from an Single Point Mooring (SPM) Terminal.
 Engaged in: Diving, dredging, clearing, pile driving, overhauling, surveying or obstacle removing
operations and laying navigational marks etc.-and all other activities which are sensitive to
passing Vessels.
4.2.6 Under Keel clearance
i. Subsea Pipelines
When sailing or crossing over any subsea pipelines, all Vessels, Crafts or rigs must ensure that they
maintain a minimum dynamic under keel clearance of 3 (three) meters. If under exceptional
circumstances, Vessels, Crafts or rigs are required to cross such pipelines with an under keel
clearance of less than 3 (three) meters, a detailed procedure for such operation is to be submitted to
the Harbour Master in advance and the crossing may proceed only after written permission is
obtained. In any event, under no circumstances may dynamic under keel clearance be reduced to
less than 1 (one) meter.
ii. Navigating within port limits and in channels
Vessels may enter or leave a Port at any time during the day or night subject to limitations on the
minimum dynamic under keel clearance, i.e. taking into account the effect of extreme adverse
weather conditions, the effect of squat at the prevailing speed, bank effect, ship size and load
condition, list and trim.
For water depths within port limits, channels and approaches, reference is made to Port Information
Guide,https://ppa.adnoc.ae/en/ports/jebel-dhanna-ruwais/part-iii--7-a-port-description &
https://ppa.adnoc.ae/en/ports/das-zirku-mubarraz/part-iii---7.
To ensure safe channel passage, the following minimum dynamic under keel clearance shall be
maintained for all Vessels and Craft entering or leaving a Port:
A Up to 100,000 SDWT 0.92 meters / 3 Feet

B Up to 250,000 SDWT 1.22 meters / 4 Feet
C Up to 350,000 SDWT 1.52 meters / 5 Feet
D Over 350,000 SDWT 1.83 meters / 6 Feet
4.2.7 Anchors and Anchoring
i. Vessels shall have both anchors ready for immediate use whenever required by the Pilot.
ii. SPM bound Tankers must secure and lash their anchors prior to making the final approach, for
the duration of stay at the SPM and until finally clear.
iii. All Vessels must have anchors secured when crossing pipeline areas.
iv. Vessels shall not anchor near any submarine pipeline within the Port as described unless
engaged on work which, in the opinion of the Harbour Master, necessitates their doing so.
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4.2.8 Manoeuvring
No Vessel is allowed to drop or slip anchor, leave or alter its place of anchorage, fasten or unfasten
its moorings within the areas defined in these Regulations, without the express permission of the
Harbour Master.
4.2.9 Vessels Moored in Port
i. All Vessels shall use the mooring patterns specific to the Terminal Berth. Information on minimum
mooring requirements is available in the port information booklet of the relevant Ports which is
available on www.ppa.adnoc.ae.
ii. The Master of a berthed or anchored Vessel or Craft shall ensure that the Vessel or Craft shall at
all times be properly moored or anchored and display the relevant lights and/or signals.
iii. The Master of a Vessel or Craft, once moored, shall not change its mooring(s) to other
bollards/hooks without permission from the Harbour Master.
iv. The Harbour Master may physically examine moorings or check their certification, maintenance
records whenever he deems it is necessary.
4.2.10 Use of bow, stern thrusters and side thrusters
i. It is prohibited to use the bow/stern thrusters and/or side thrusters:
 When the Vessel is aground;
 When the Vessel is moored alongside a quay, jetty or anchored near a buoy, unless
immediately at arrival or on departure.
ii. The prohibition of paragraph (i) does not apply if permission has been granted by the Harbour
Master.
4.2.11 Lowering of boats
Life boat/rescue boat drills in a Port which involve lowering of boats/survival crafts into the water from
Vessels is strictly prohibited. However, the Harbour Master may allow lowering of the lifeboats, tender
boats and other survival craft into the water at his discretion based on a detailed risk assessment
being submitted by the Master of the Vessel.
4.2.12 Diving Operations
A Vessel within a Port shall not carry out any diving operations without prior permission from the
Harbour Master.
4.2.13 Floating materials or under-water cables
The Master of a Vessel entangled by floating materials such as fishing nets or under-water cables in
a Port shall immediately stop her engines and report the occurrence to the Harbour Master, and may
not move without prior permission from the Petroleum Ports Authority/Harbour Master.
4.2.14 Pleasure craft and sailing vessels in port
Pleasure craft and sailing vessels must comply with the Petroleum Ports Authority’s admission
requirements and obtain permission from the Harbour Master prior entry.
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4.2.15 Fire-fighting Equipment
Boats permitted to enter the Port shall be provided with adequate fire-fighting equipment, and shall
not be left unmanned.
4.2.16 Entry into Port and Visitors
i. No person shall enter the Port unless he is authorised to do so by the Petroleum Ports Authority.
ii. No visitors shall be allowed to go on board and no crew members shall be allowed embark or
disembark unless authorised by the Harbour Master.
4.2.17 Approach to vessels
No boat shall approach Vessels in Port within a distance of less than 500 meters except with the
Harbour Master’s permission. The terms of this Article shall not apply to Government Vessels [or
Vessels authorized to do so by the Harbour Master.
4.2.18 Alcohol
All alcoholic beverages on Vessels within the Port and shall be secured in bonded lockers on board. It
is forbidden to transfer alcoholic beverages between Vessels and to/from shore.
4.2.19 Swimming and fishing
No swimming or fishing is permitted within the Port.
4.2.20 AIS (Automatic Identification Systems)
All Vessels entering Ports of all gross tonnages and types will be required to have fitted and in
operation an Automatic Identification System in compliance with SOLAS whether or not they would
normally have to comply with SOLAS. The unit may not be switched off without specific instruction
from either the CICPA Commander or the Harbour Master.
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5 SAFETY & SECURITY OF VESSELS OPERATIONS IN PORT
5.1 General Security & Safety Requirements
5.1.1 Port Safety Requirements
i. The Master whilst within a Port must ensure that Port Security, Fire and Safety Requirements are
complied with.
ii. Vessels carrying out operations must complete, sign and comply with an appropriate ship/shore
safety or ship to ship transfer checklists.
iii. Naked fires, steel hammering, welding and other activities that may cause incendiary sparks
shall be prohibited, unless authorized by the Harbour Master;
iv. Goods that may react upon exposure to dampness, rain or sunlight shall be fully protected;
v. Any damaged packaging shall be suitably repaired or where this is impossible, the necessary
precautionary measure shall be taken;
vi. All necessary precautions shall be observed to avoid the falling or rolling off of packaged
Dangerous Goods into the waters of the port;
vii. Dangerous Goods shall be properly handled using appropriate equipment and shall in no case,
be dragged or rolled.
viii. Bare or Naked Lights on board any Vessels are prohibited anywhere in the Hazardous Area.
5.1.2 Operation of Transmitting equipment
i. It is not permitted to operate the Medium Frequency (MF) and High frequency (HF) equipment
when alongside a berth.
ii. The antennae of the same must be isolated / earthed during cargo operations.
iii. No repair or test of any electrical equipment including mobile telephones, radio and radar sets
and home electrical appliances is permitted in the Hazardous Area, unless permission therefore
is expressly obtained from the Harbour Master.
iv. The use of Intrinsically Safe VHF and UHF communication sets with a radiated power of 1 watt
or less is allowed.
5.1.3 Use of Electrical equipment
Electrical equipment i n c l u d i n g m o b i l e t e l e p h o n e s not classed as Intrinsically Safe must

not be used in the Hazardous Area. Whilst transiting Hazardous Areas, any such equipment must
be switched off (Use of any “safe modes” is not permitted).
5.1.4 Explosives
All explosives or inflammable stores shall be kept on board in a safe place which shall be tightly
closed.
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5.1.5 Fire Fighting Equipment
Fire-fighting equipment, instruments and tools, including main fire pumps and emergency pumps,
shall be ready for immediate use. The Vessel’s Master shall be responsible for ensuring that all on
board the Vessel are aware of the shore fire-fighting arrangements.
5.1.6 Fire breakout
If a fire breaks out on board any Vessel, the Master shall immediately send out signals by
prolonged sounding of the Vessel’s whistle and continuous ringing of the Vessel’s alarm bell. He
shall immediately report the fire breakout to the Harbour Master/Terminal Safety Officer and the
Port control by all means available.
5.1.7 Pollution, Stench or Health Hazard
i. Pollution of the environment within Port Limits is strictly prohibited.
ii. Any discharge into the sea of oil or oily mixtures is strictly prohibited.
iii. No discharge into the sea shall contain chemicals or other substances which are hazardous to
the marine environment. This specifically includes oil dispersants and allied chemicals.
iv. No domestic or other garbage shall be dumped into the sea. Vessel’s engineering department
will ensure that ‘No Hot Ash’ or other incendive materials are emitted from any source at any
time while within a Port.
v. Particular consideration should be given to the storage of garbage that is designated as ‘special
waste’, such as batteries, sensors and fluorescent tubes, to ensure that only compatible
materials are stowed together.
vi. Smoke from the funnels or exhaust gas lines of Vessels is prohibited.
vii. As per Federal law No 24/1999 “Discharge of sewage effluent into the marine environment is
forbidden except in the following conditions:
• The vessel is discharging treated sewage effluent using equipment recognized by the
concerned authorities at four miles from the nearest land.
• The vessel is discharging untreated sewage effluent at more than 12 miles from the nearest
land.
viii. It is prohibited on a Vessel to wash decks or carry out any other work that may cause pollution.
ix. Vessels shall take all precautions to prevent, soot, garbage incineration, vapours, fumes, dust or
steam escaping from a Vessel.
x. Petroleum Ports Authority may prohibit the handling of certain substances, which in its opinion
might cause a stench or health hazard during handling. The prohibition may refer to one or more
specific Ports or to parts thereof, in which case the Petroleum Ports Authority shall publish a list
of the substances and areas so designated.
5.1.8 Noxious Substances
i. No Noxious Substances or materials or goods from any Vessel shall be landed or disposed off
within a Port.
ii. The Harbour Master may order any Vessel carrying Noxious Substances or other goods which are
considered by him to be deleterious to health to leave the Port immediately.
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iii. The Harbour Master may order the removal, confiscation or destruction of any other materials or
goods which are or have become noxious or which he may deem to be harmful or potentially harmful
to health, without any compensation.
iv. The cost of removal, confiscation or destruction of the materials or goods, and the cleaning,
disinfection and sterilization of the affected area shall be at the expense of the Vessel owners
concerned.
5.1.9 Repairs / Maintenance whilst in Port
i. Repair or maintenance activities on board a Vessel are prohibited if: -
 The activity involves Hot Work of any kind including but not limited to the use of naked lights or
open fire. Refer to Hot Work definition provided in article 1.1.2.
 The activities cause the Vessel to be immobilized or
 The activities cause or may cause danger, damage or health hazards to the Vessel or other
Vessels around it or to the Port.
ii. Operations for cleaning of the boiler or grinding, chipping, scraping and rubbing of steel that may
cause sparks on board a Vessel are not permitted in the Hazardous Area.
iii. Opening or closing of portholes or outlets, connection or disconnection of pipes, or any other
operation that requires metal tools on board a Vessel shall be carried out in a manner that shall
avoid the emission of sparks.
iv. In the event of exigencies for repair operations to enable the Vessel to set out to sea, written
permission shall be obtained from the Harbour Master prior to carrying out any such work.
v. No maintenance activity including painting is allowed whilst a Vessel is alongside any berth.
vi. The restrictions referred to in paragraph (i) above does not apply if permission has been granted
by the Harbour Master for these activities.
5.1.10 Substances or objects fallen into the water
i. If any object or substance is dropped or spilled over-board within a port, including any anchor or
associated material, the Vessel’s Master shall immediately report it to the Harbour Master and,
after receiving permission, recover it and/or clean the Port, harbour and/or properties polluted at its
expense.
ii. If the Vessel is unable or unwilling to recover the object or substance, the Harbour Master may
recover it or have the Port, works, polluted objects and surroundings cleaned as deemed
appropriate at the expense of the Vessel’s Master/Vessel owner.
iii. This Article is supplemented by the provisions of Article 5.3 below.
5.1.11 Vessels in danger
i. Where a Vessel within a Port is in danger due to fire, explosion or another cause, or is in distress,
the Master shall immediately report to the Harbour Master using all available means including but
not limited to sirens or whistles, she shall also display the appropriate light signals or flags as per
International code of signals.
ii. The Harbour Master may order such a Vessel to move to another place and may if it is
operationally possible also order Tugs to take necessary action to move the Vessel. The Vessel’s
Master/Vessel owner shall be responsible for all costs so arising.
iii. All persons near a Vessel displaying danger signals shall stay well clear and shall observe the
instructions issued by the Harbour Master.
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iv. Notwithstanding the above, the Master may take action, including manoeuvring his Vessel, to
avert immediate danger posed to his own Vessel by a neighbouring Vessel to which paragraph (i)
applies. In such case the Vessel is deemed to be in a similar position.
5.1.12 Save All / Rat Guards / Gangways
A Vessel within a Port shall have:
i. Suitable save-alls to prevent operational spills
ii. Rat guards fitted to all mooring ropes and wires; and
iii. Properly rigged gangways for personnel transfer.
5.1.13 Decks and gangways
i. The decks and gangways of a Vessel shall be free of slippery or oily materials.
ii. The gangway shall also be provided with guardrails on both sides and a properly rigged safety
net beneath, be properly secured and clearly lit at night.
5.1.14 Fencing of openings on deck
The coaming of any open manhole, opening or open hatch less than 50 centimetres in height above
the deck shall be fenced around to a height of one meter and closed when not in use.
5.1.15 Safety of loading and unloading
The Harbour Master may prohibit loading and unloading of Cargo for reasons of safety and order, if it
is deemed dangerous and/or a threat to life, property or environment. He may alternately order
loading or unloading to be stopped immediately if he deems it necessary for operational reasons.
5.1.16 Bunkering
i. Bunkering is permitted only at the designated places within Petroleum Ports, for further
information, queries may be sent to the Harbour Master of the relevant port.
ii. In this Article, bunkering means the transfer of Bunkers from a bunker vessel or from a
bunkering truck or berth manifold to a Vessel.
iii. The Masters of Vessels and operators of trucks / terminals involved in bunkering shall ensure
that bunkering shall only take place after notification to and approval from the Harbour Master of
the intention to bunker. at least 24 hours in advance of proposed bunkering, the Master of a
Vessel to be bunkered must inform the Harbour Master of such, stating the place, type and
quantity of Bunkers to be transferred and the probable time that bunkering will begin and end.
iv. The Master or his representative shall be on board at the time when a Vessel is taking on
Bunkers and shall be responsible for ensuring that all international/national requirements for
conducting such operation are observed and all reasonable safety precautions taken.
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v. The Master of a Vessel or terminal operator or/and the driver of a truck involved in bunkering
shall ensure that the conditions of paragraphs (ii) & (iii) along with their company requirements
for bunkering are fully complied with during the entire bunkering process.
vi. If the Master of a Vessel or terminal operator or/and the driver of a truck involved in bunkering
cannot ensure the fulfilment of the conditions of paragraphs (ii) & (iii) respectively, he shall cease
bunkering immediately.
vii. The Petroleum Ports Authority may from time to time establish further rules with respect to
bunkering within the limits and purposes of this Regulation.
5.1.17 Discharge of waste
No refuse of any kind shall be discharged overboard or into the installations of the Port.
Collection of domestic waste may be arranged upon request. Reference can be made to Port
Information Guide, https://ppa.adnoc.ae/en/ports/jebel-dhanna-ruwais/part-vii-16-port-services &
https://ppa.adnoc.ae/en/ports/das-zirku-mubarraz.
5.2 Cargo operations
5.2.1 Naval Vessels
The provisions of this part shall not apply to a naval vessel carrying Dangerous Goods for its own
use, provided it is not loading or unloading such goods and providing that the Dangerous Goods do
not pose a danger or potential danger to the Port.
5.2.2 Display of appropriate signals
The Master of a Vessel carrying Dangerous Cargo or Dangerous Goods within a Port shall ensure
that the international signals indicating loading or unloading of Dangerous Goods are displayed as
required.
5.2.3 Preparations on board vessels
The Master of a Vessel shall ensure that before commencing loading or unloading of Cargo all
necessary preparations for loading and unloading haven been taken such as:
 Preparation of all necessary equipment
 Verifications of the atmospheres of tanks, holds and other cargo spaces.
5.2.4 Vessel Fire Plans, Loading / Discharging Plans and Stowage Plans,
The Master of a Vessel shall ensure that an appropriate loading/discharging plan and stowage plan is
prepared and available for scrutiny along with the Vessels’ fire plans close to the point of access to
shore.
5.2.5 Stopping of cargo operations in case of fire
All loading or unloading operations shall be discontinued immediately upon any outbreak of fire and
the Vessel prepared for i m m e d i a t e disconnection of cargo arms or hoses.
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5.2.6 Fumigation of vessels
The Master of a Vessel shall not carry out fumigation unless prior permission has been obtained from
the Harbour Master. Vessels that have been previously fumigated shall provide a declaration to the
Harbour Master stating that all areas are free of fumigants.
5.2.7 Application of the IMDG code
The Master and owner of a Vessel and the owner of the Cargo shall jointly and severally ensure that
the Dangerous and Noxious Goods and substances on board the Vessel:
i. Are packed and stowed according to the requirements as set out in the IMDG-code.
ii. The Harbour Master may in special circumstances permit a deviation from the requirements of
this Article.
iii. The Petroleum Ports Authority may establish a limit on the quantity of Dangerous Goods in
packaged form allowed on a Vessel in Port or on one or more berths in Port.
iv. The quantities allowed may differ according to the type of Vessel, type of tank, type of package,
the size of the package, the nature of the substances or groups of substances and the berth or
part of the Port.
v. The master of a Vessel shall not reside with his Vessel in Port, in a part of the Port or on a berth if
the quantity of Dangerous Goods on board exceeds any limit set as per paragraph (i).
vi. The Harbour Master may designate a specific berth for a Vessel loaded with or to be loaded with
Dangerous Goods or Noxious Substances.
vii. The Harbour Master may in special circumstances grant exemption from paragraph i to a Vessel
for a specific berth and for a short period as specified in that exemption.
5.2.8 Leakage
All pipes and other equipment shall be free from any leakage and shall be kept
under constant supervision. Any leakage or spillage shall be immediately reported to the Harbour
Master
5.2.9 Scuppers
All deck scuppers on any Vessel within a Port shall be tightly sealed and no leakage or spillage of oil
on board shall be allowed to drain overboard.
5.2.10 Sparks from funnels
The Master of a Vessel shall be responsible for ensuring that all appropriate measures have been
taken to prevent the emission of sparks from funnels. The Harbour Master may take appropriate
action against any vessel not complying with this requirement.
5.2.11 Use of cooking equipment
Cooking and the use of cooking equipment are not permitted in the Hazardous Area at any time.
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5.2.12 Responsibilities
The Master and/or Vessel owner and/or charterer shall be responsible for any and all breaches of
Articles 5.1.7 and Articles 5.2.8-5.2.11 and shall be responsible for cleaning the leakage, spillage,
discharge, emission and for all costs for so doing.
The Petroleum Ports Authority and/or Harbour Master may refuse to permit a Vessel to sail until
such cleaning has been undertaken or until the costs/anticipated costs of such cleaning have been
paid. Without prejudice to the foregoing, the Petroleum Ports Authority and/or Harbour Master may
permit a Vessel to sail upon receipt of a suitable and acceptable P&I Club Letter of Undertaking or
bank guarantee to cover all costs arising out of or in connection with the aforesaid cleaning. Any
delay in the Vessel sailing as a consequence of failing to provide security in a form acceptable to the
Petroleum Ports Authority/Harbour Master will result in charges for detention, as set out in Article
3.2.5(iv), being incurred.
5.2.13 Lightning Storms & Gas Accumulation
i. Loading, discharging, ballasting, de ballasting, gas freeing and tank cleaning operations shall be
stopped during lightning storms if the Master or Chief Officer or the Harbour Master /
Terminal Superintendent orders.
ii. In such cases, all tank openings, loading valves, gas line ascending tube valves, mast riser and
vents shall be closed, ensuring that a pressure build-up in the tanks does not occur.
iii. In the event of leakage or abnormal gas accumulation, cargo operations shall be stopped or the
cargo transfer rates shall be reduced if the Officer in Charge on board or the Harbour
Master/Terminal Superintendent so orders.
5.2.14 No Smoking
i. It is prohibited to smoke within the Ports except as specifically permitted by the Petroleum Ports
Authority in designated areas for the purpose.
ii. Smoking on board a Vessel at a berth may be allowed in spaces specifically designed for this
purpose.
iii. The Vessel’s Master is responsible for nominating and clearly marking the designated smoking
areas in consultation with the manager of the terminal or with his representative.
iv. The latest ISGOTT guidelines must be followed whilst designating such spaces.
v. The Harbour Master /Terminal Superintendent may, however, prohibit smoking within the designated
areas if in their opinion the circumstances so necessitate.
5.2.15 Ship to Ship Transfer (“STS”) within Petroleum Ports
i. STS operations are not permitted within the Petroleum Port, unless they are a business need of any
ADNOC Group company
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ii. Any ADNOC Group company planning to conduct any such STS operation shall send a formal
request to PPA not less than 3 months in advance.
iii. Any ADNOC Group company must provide with any STS requests an operational risk assessment
and a detailed site specific contingency plan. This must cover the potential incidents identified by
(OCIMF-STS), and any additional risks that might be identified by the Operational Risk
Assessment.
iv. Petroleum Ports Authority’s STS Guidelines lay out the requirements for STS operations within
Petroleum Ports and are available on Petroleum Ports Authority’s website.
5.2.16 Transfer / Transhipment of dangerous goods in bulk
The Master of a Vessel involved in the transfer or transhipment of Dangerous Goods or Dangerous
Cargo shall ensure that:
i. Before, during and after the transfer or transhipment of one or more Dangerous Goods/Cargo
between his Vessel and a terminal or between his Vessel and another Vessel, the requirements
incorporated in the Vessel/shore safety checklist issued by the Terminal in question, or in the
case of a ship to ship transfer by the ADNOC Group Company conducting the operation, are fully
complied with.
ii. No tank cleaning is carried out concurrent with Cargo loading / discharging of any bulk
Dangerous Goods/Cargo.
iii. No more than one Vessel is berthed alongside his Vessel on the side of the Vessel designated by
the Harbour Master.
iv. No Vessel shall berth alongside the cargo area of his Vessel, unless the Vessel is specifically
equipped for the transport of the Dangerous Goods/Cargo intended to be handled and is provided
with a national or an international document to this effect.
v. The Harbour Master is notified immediately prior to commencement of transfer operations.
5.2.17 Specific requirements - Transfer / Transhipment of Oil / Chemical / Liquefied Gas

Cargoes
Without prejudice to the requirements of Article 5.2.15:
i. Vessels engaged in ship to ship transfers of petroleum or chemicals or liquefied Gases shall
comply with all the requirements set out in the latest edition of the Ship to Ship Transfer Guide for
Petroleum, Chemicals and Liquefied Gases.
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ii. Vessels engaged in the transfer of crude oil and petroleum products shall comply with all the
requirements set out in the latest edition of the International Safety Guide for Oil Tankers and
Terminals (ISGOTT).
iii. Vessels engaged in the transfer of bulk chemical cargoes shall comply with all the requirements
set out in the latest edition of the ICS Tanker Safety Guide (Chemicals).
iv. Vessels engaged in the transfer of liquefied gas shall comply with all the requirements set out in
the latest edition of the ICS Tanker Safety Guide (Liquified Gas).
5.2.18 Cleaning of cargo holds / tanks / bunker spaces
Cleaning, purging, or gas freeing of cargo or bunker spaces shall be prohibited without prior
permission from the Harbour Master of the relevant Port. If such permission is granted, it will be on
the basis of conditions imposed on the Master by the Harbour Master and the Master shall fully
comply with such conditions.
5.2.19 Crude Oil Washing Operations (COW)
i. If a Vessel discharging crude oil at any of the Ports intends to carry out Crude Oil Washing, the
Vessel’s Master must send a request for the same at least 24 hours prior arrival in the Port, to the
relevant terminal with a copy to the Harbour Master of the respective Port.
ii. If a terminal accepts such a request, the concerned terminal and the Vessel shall ensure that
COW is conducted subject to the following conditions;
 An approved Crude Oil Washing Operations and Equipment Manual is available and being
utilized.
 The crude oil being utilized for COW is not listed in the Crude Oil Washing Operations and
Equipment Manual as being not suitable for COW.
 Records indicate that COW system was pressure tested prior to use and that there is no
indication of cargo oil leakage or malfunction within the COW system.
 The person overall in charge of COW operations is suitably qualified.
 The COW operation is carried out in accordance with a Crude Oil Washing operation plan.
 The oxygen content of the Inert Gas being supplied does not exceed 5% by Volume.
 There is no malfunction or stoppage of the inert gas system.
 Communication between the cargo control room, the Vessel's main deck and the terminal
control room is maintained at all times.
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5.2.20 Cleaning of cargo spaces other than COW
i. For Tankers, ISGOTT requirements for tank cleaning must be complied with
ii. Adequate materials and equipment shall be used, complying with relevant safety standards
iii. The cleaning shall be effected in accordance with the relevant safety standards and
5.2.21 Tank Cleaning /COW - Notifications
i. Before the start of COW or tank cleaning, the following information must be sent to the Harbour
Master at least 24 hours in advance:
 Name and call sign of the Vessel
 Nationality and home port of the Vessel
 Full style address of Agent, Vessel owner and charterer of the Vessel the intended date and
time of the cleaning;
 the intended place of the cleaning in Port
 the spaces of the Vessel which are intended to be cleaned
 the chemical or technical names of the substances which the spaces intended to be cleaned
contain or have last contained
 the intended method of cleaning to be applied.
ii. No other Vessel shall berth alongside during the COW operation unless that Vessel is
permitted by the Harbour Master for the purposes of receiving the washings.
iii. The Harbour Master may restrict or prohibit the COW and/or tank cleaning if in his judgment
due to prevailing conditions or circumstances it is not safe to proceed with such operation.
5.2.22 Emergency Towing Off / Fire Wires
i. Effective 15th of November 2018, the deployment of certified Fire Wires or Fire Resistant Tow-
Off Pendants, is no longer required whilst loading/discharging within the Petroleum Ports. This
is in order to avoid recurrent delays and/or possible incidents caused by incorrect deployment.
ii. However, it is Masters’ of visiting vessels discretion to appropriately deploy certified Fire Wires
or Fire Resistant Tow-Off Pendants, in which case Port Control and Terminal Operator are to
be advised.
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5.3 Ballast Water Management Requirements
5.3.1 General:
i. Visual Monitoring of Ballast Discharge is mandatory
ii. At night, the ballast discharge and the sea area in the vicinity shall be adequately illuminated.
The Petroleum Ports Authority recognizes the provisions of the International Convention for the
Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM convention) as adopted by
IMO on 13th February 2004 and gives full effect to ROPME requirements for Ballast Water
Management for the ROPME Sea Area as issued by the IMO on 2nd February 2009, vide MEPC
59/INF.3.
N.B. The BWM Convention entered into force internationally on 8 September 2017. This convention
recognizes two standards - Regulation D-1 Ballast Water Exchange Standard and Regulation D-2
Ballast Water Performance Standard. Vessels will be required to comply with the BWM Convention.
5.3.2 Scope of application:
This s ec tion shall apply to all Vessels calling at any of the Petroleum Ports. for any purpose; of
GRT 400 tons and above, with sea water ballast on board originated from outside the ROPME sea
area (RSA).
Note: Vessels below GRT 400 tons, with sea water ballast on board originating from outside the
ROPME sea area (RSA) shall endeavour to exchange ballast water prior to entering into UAE
waters as far as practically possible.
5.3.3 Enforcement of Ballast Water Management Convention
i. Vessels intending to discharge ballast water in any of the Ports, shall only do so taking the
provisions of the BWM convention into consideration.
ii. Until the BWM convention is enforced, the Petroleum Ports Authority requires Vessels arriving in a
Port to:
 Produce an international ballast water management certificate, issued by the flag state or a
Petroleum Ports Authority recognized by the Flag State.
 Have on board an approved ballast water management plan in accordance with IMO
guidelines.
 Have a ballast water record book giving details of when, where and quantity of ballast
water taken on board, discharged, exchanged, circulated or treated for ballast water
management purpose.
 Complete and submit a ballast water management reporting form (available on PPA website), to
the Harbour Master/the Petroleum Ports Authority, 72 hours prior to the vessel’s arrival.
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iv. The Petroleum Ports Authority reserves the right to randomly take and tests samples of ballast
water upon vessel’s arrival to verify the contents of the ballast water on board.
v. Vessels may not be allowed to discharge ballast water until it is verified that it does not present a
threat of harm to human health, the environment, the property or resources in the Port.
vi. Ballast Water pumping records on board may be verified by the Petroleum Ports Authority’s
representative upon the Vessel’s arrival.
5.3.4 Exemptions
The following Vessels are exempted from the requirements of this section:
 Navy, CICPA, and other government vessels.
 Vessels trading exclusively within waters of the RSA.
 Vessels with permanent sea water ballast in sealed tanks which are not required to be discharged
in the Port.
5.3.5 Exceptions
Other than for Vessels arriving from zones affected by cholera or outbreak of similar contagious
epidemics, the Petroleum Ports Authority may grant exceptions to Vessels from the requirements of
this Article in the following circumstances:
i. In the event of an accidental discharge of sea water ballast and sediments resulting from damage
to a Vessel or its equipment, provided that all reasonable precautions have been taken for the
purpose of preventing or minimizing the discharge.
ii. In the event of emergencies when the discharge of sea water ballast and/or sediments is
necessary for saving lives at sea, the health of those on board or for the safety of the Vessel.
5.3.6 Reception Facility
Except in emergency cases, the Petroleum Ports Authority does not currently offer a reception facility
for discharge of sea water ballast or sediments.
5.3.7 Violations
Vessels that arrive at any of the Ports and are found to be in violation of the above requirements, may
be denied entry into the Port, be prohibited from discharging ballast or become subject to the
appropriate proceedings and sanctions under the laws of the UAE, including, applied fines or
detention and shall be reported to its flag administration.
5.3.8 Compensation
No compensation or demurrage shall be payable for delays incurred as a result of extended

investigation of ballast water contents on board, or for a Vessel being not in compliance with the
above requirements.
5.3.9 More stringent requirements
The Petroleum Ports Authority may under special circumstances, e.g. increased risk of introduction
of alien species, impose more stringent requirements than those laid down within this section.
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5.3.10 Reporting oil spills
As soon as a Master becomes aware of an oil spill or oil pollution, he shall notify the Terminal
Representative, Harbour Master, Pilot on duty or Port Control. Masters of Vessels causing a pollution
incident shall immediately make the necessary arrangements to notify the concerned government
agency in accordance with the requirements of MARPOL 73/78.
Masters are advised that any pollution incident involving a Vessel which occurs while the Vessel is
located within a Port will subject the Vessel, its Master, owners, operators, charterers and Agents to
penalties imposed by the Government and Courts of the U.A.E In the event that a Vessel is
determined to be the source of such pollution, the Master or the Vessel’s Agent will be served with a
Letter of Protest and will be required to provide the Petroleum Ports Authority or Harbour Master with
a Statement of Facts describing the incident. A bank guarantee acceptable to the Petroleum Ports
Authority or, in their sole discretion, a Protection & Indemnity (P&I) Club Letter of Undertaking in a
form acceptable to the Petroleum Ports Authority will be required by way of security and a failure to
provide security promptly may result in the Vessel being detained pursuant to an order from the Abu
Dhabi Courts or other competent authority. Costs reimbursable for pollution include but are not limited
to the following: -
 Investigation costs including aerial surveillance and satellite data;
 Charges resulting from delays at berth necessary to investigate and correct the cause of the
pollution.
 Boats, materials and other equipment used for oil spill cleanup.
 Manpower resources.
 Samples analyses.
 Oil waste treatment costs.
 The costs of providing exceptional marine assistance to unberth and re-berth vessels.
 Cost of berth unavailability due to pollution damage.
 Corporate overhead not otherwise included in the applicable rates charged for other expenses.
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6 SERVICES IN PORT
6.1 General provisions
6.1.1 Specific license for provision of services in port areas
i. Unless a specific licence has been granted for the purpose by the Petroleum Ports Authority,
rendering of any services with the Ports is strictly prohibited.
ii. The Petroleum Ports Authority may establish rules for the construction, equipment and manning
on such Vessels involved in rendering services.
6.2 Pilotage
6.2.1 Compulsory Pilotage
Pilotage is compulsory for all Vessels calling at or departing from terminals within the Ports, other
than the Vessels listed below, or as otherwise ordered by the Harbour Master.
i. Vessels of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Defence Forces
ii. Vessels belonging to CICPA
iii. Dredgers, survey, project vessels, tugs, barges and special ancillary non-cargo boats on
contract to the Petroleum Port Petroleum Ports Authority or ADNOC Group Company.
iv. Agent Boats
v. Pleasure crafts
In all above mentioned cases, however the Harbour Master may enforce the use of a Pilot in
the pursuit of securing safety, in which case appropriate tariff for the availed Marine Service
shall apply.
6.2.2 Completion of pre- arrival or pre-departure formalities
Vessels may be piloted to or from berths only after pre arrival or pre departure formalities have been
completed, and all required information has been submitted to the Harbour Master, the Petroleum
Ports Authority and the Pilot.
6.2.3 Organization - License to provide Pilotage Services
Any organization, legal entity or individual may only provide Pilotage Services in the Ports and in the
waters leading to these Ports if they hold a valid License for that purpose.
6.2.4 Organization Pilotage License - Specifications
A Pilotage License shall specify either directly or by reference to other instruments of the Petroleum
Ports Authority:
i. The quality and features of the organization required to provide safe and efficient pilotage services
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ii. Requirements with regards to the skills and proficiency of the Pilots provided and the system in
which these are maintained at the required level;
iii. Requirements as to the quality management of the organization providing the Pilotage services.
iv. Requirements with regards to human resources;
v. Requirements with regards to the hours of service provided, response times and similar issues.
6.2.5 Individual - Pilotage License
No person(s) may act as a Pilot within the Ports or in the waters leading to or from these Ports,
unless:
i. That person holds a valid Pilot License issued by the Petroleum Ports Authority and
ii. That person is an employee of or acts under the supervision of a Legal Person or entity that holds
a valid license as indicated in article 6.2.4.
6.2.6 Certification of Pilots
i. Upon receipt of a written application for a competence certificate as a Pilot, the Petroleum Ports
Authority shall assess the application on the basis of the following criteria:
 Whether the applicant has credentials from an accredited nautical institute certifying his
qualification as a Pilot and/or has passed both theoretical and practical examinations prepared
and conducted by the Petroleum Ports Authority and;
 Whether the applicant has a valid medical certificate from an ADNOC approved medical
practitioner indicating physical (including vision and hearing) and mental fitness of the
individual.
ii. The Petroleum Ports Authority may, in order to facilitate pilots’ education and training or as a
temporary and emergency measure, authorize a competent person who has not obtained a Pilot’s
license, to act as a pilot subject to such conditions as it deems necessary.
6.2.7 Identification of Pilots
i. A Pilot shall always be in the possession of a proof of identification, issued by the organization
mentioned in Article 4.2.2, paragraph 1, stating:
 The name of the Pilot,
 Date of Birth in DD/MM/YYYY format
 The serial number of his/her license and its’ validity, and
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 The organization with which he/she is associated.
ii. During operations the Pilot shall upon request produce his identity card to appropriate Petroleum
Ports Authority, personnel.
6.2.8 Suspension and cancellation of Individual Pilot's License
i. The Harbour Master may suspend the License of a Pilot if he is of the reasonable opinion that the
individual is negligent in his duties as a Pilot or behaves in a manner inconsistent with the proper
performance of his duties and responsibilities.
ii. After any such suspension, the Petroleum Ports Authority shall initiate an inquiry to determine the
circumstances and merits of the suspension.
iii. The Petroleum Ports Authority may cancel the License of a Pilot if it is satisfied upon inquiry that
the individual either lacks the competence or qualities required of a Pilot, and/or has been
negligent in his duties as a Pilot and/or has behaved in a manner inconsistent with the proper
performance of his duties and responsibilities.
6.2.9 Duty of a Pilot - Limitations
The duty of a Pilot is confined to offering advice to the Master of the Vessel. No Pilot appointed by the
Petroleum Ports Authority when acting in his capacity as a Pilot, shall be deemed to be in command
of any Vessel.
6.2.10 Responsibility of Master
A Pilot provided by the Petroleum Ports Authority will undertake the pilotage, anchorage, mooring and
sailing of Vessels subject to the understanding that in all circumstances, the Master of any Vessel
remains solely responsible, on behalf of his owners, for the safety and proper navigation of his
Vessel.
6.2.11 Permanent Exemption from Pilotage
All marine crafts owned by or under command of the Petroleum Ports Authority, and all UAE
government or naval vessels are exempt from pilotage.
6.2.12 Pilotage Exemption Certificate
The Petroleum Ports Authority may issue a pilotage exemption certificate to an individual if after an
assessment it is satisfied that the individual concerned fulfills the requirements set by the Petroleum
Ports Authority for this purpose.
6.2.13 Validity of exemption certificate
An exemption certificate issued under Article 6.2.12 hereof shall be valid for a maximum of one year.
The Petroleum Ports Authority may revoke it earlier on valid grounds.
6.2.14 Display of pilot signals
Vessels with a Pilot on board, shall by day display the International signal flag “H” in a prominent
position whilst maneuvering under his advice and by night, as determined by the Petroleum Ports
Authority.
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6.2.15 Duties of the Master – Embarkation and Disembarkation of Pilots
The Vessel’s Master shall comply fully with the requirements of safe embarkation and disembarkation
of Pilots as prescribed by the International Maritime Pilots’ Association (IMPA) & International
Maritime Organization IMO.
N.B. Shipping Industry Guidance on Pilot boarding arrangements may be obtained from IMPA at
Pilot Transfer Arrangements.
6.2.16 Obligation to Inform regarding Damage, Defects
The Master of a Vessel is obliged to inform the Harbour Master and Pilot of any damage, defects or
special circumstances that may affect the safety of navigation prior to entering the Port.
6.3 Towage
6.3.1 Organization - License to provide Towage Services
Any organization, legal entity or individual may only provide towage services in the Ports and in the
waters leading to these Ports if they hold a valid License for that purpose. The License shall specify
the requirements that the organization must fulfil in the interest of order, safety and efficiency in Port.
6.3.2 Requirements of vessels and crew
All vessels which are used for towage services shall comply with the requirements laid down by the
Petroleum Ports Authority. Such compliance shall be verifiable by the scrutiny of certification issued
by a Petroleum Ports Authority recognized institution.
In the interest of safety of towage, the Petroleum Ports Authority shall prescribe requirements and
rules with respect to the number, health, skills and proficiency of the crews on board such vessels.
6.3.3 Utilization of tugs – Tug Usage in Petroleum Ports
Pilots and Vessels Master shall always utilize Tug/s as per the Petroleum Ports Authority’s Tug usage
requirements.
However, when deemed justifiable, the Harbour Master along with the representative of the Marine
Service provider may agree to other / alternate usage, always within the limits of the assets available
for use. If any additional tug is used for ensuring the safety of operations, it will be charged to the
owners as per the tariff appended in 3.2.6.
6.3.4 Employment of tugs during towage
When towage is provided the Master and crew of the Tug shall be considered employees of the hirer
and shall be under his control or that of his agents.
6.4 Line Handling
6.4.1 Definitions
For the application of this section it is deemed that:
i. Line handlers: Person/s who have been issued a License by the / Petroleum Ports Authority
for conducting the mooring and unmooring of seagoing Vessels.
ii. Mooring Foremen: Persons in charge of mooring gangs / line handlers
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iii. Boat: Is a vessel built or used for mooring and unmooring of seagoing Vessels.
6.4.2 Use of line handlers
The Master/Agent of any Vessel shall ensure that the mooring and unmooring services are only
provided by Line handlers who belong to an Organization duly licensed for this purpose by the
6.4.3 License of Line handler/s Mooring Organizations
i. Line handling services may only be provided by an organization holding a License for that
purpose issued by the Petroleum Ports Authority.
ii. The License shall specify, either directly or by reference to other regulations issued by the
Petroleum Ports Authority, the requirements that the organization must fulfil in the interest of
order, safety and efficiency in Port.
iii. These requirements aim inter alia at guaranteeing:
 the professional skill of persons mooring and unmooring Vessels,
 the organization of training and refresher-courses to assure the professional skill of personnel,
and
 the availability, maintenance and management of the material and equipment required for
mooring and unmooring.
iv. The Petroleum Ports Authority may suspend or cancel the License of the aforesaid organization
if it does not observe the regulations or limitations in force.
6.4.4 Identification of Line handlers
i. Individual line handlers shall always be in the possession of a proof of identification, issued by
the organization mentioned in Article 4.4.3 stating:
 Name
 Date of Birth in DD/MM/YYYY format
 The number of his/her certificate and its’ validity, and
 The organization with which he/she is associated.
ii. During operations the linesman shall upon request show the identity card to the relevant
Petroleum Ports Authority/personnel.
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7 LIABILITIES AND PENALTIES
7.1 Liabilities
7.1.1 Liability for Pollution damage
In addition to the provisions in Article 5.2.12, and without prejudice to the liability of any persons
causing pollution, any damage or injury caused by pollution emanating from the vessel shall render
the Master, Vessel owner, charterer and operator liable for compensation and other remedies and
measures in accordance with international conventions or other instruments ratified by the
governments of Abu Dhabi and/or the UAE.
7.1.2 Liability of permit holders
The holder of a Permit is liable for any loss or damage caused by him in relation to the use of the
Permit and duties carried out by him pursuant to the terms of the Permit.
7.1.3 Failure to pay charges
The Petroleum Ports Authority may take any action it deems appropriate to ensure that all relevant
Port Charges, Port Dues, detention charges and other fees for services rendered by or on behalf of
the Petroleum Ports Authority, its’ agents or service providers are paid in full, or sufficient guarantee
is provided for the payment thereof.
7.1.4 Liability of Petroleum Ports Authority in respect of vessels within port
I. Neither the Company, the Petroleum Ports Authority nor their servants (in whatever capacity they
may be acting) shall be liable for any loss, damage or delay from whatsoever cause howsoever
arising, whether through the negligence of the aforesaid entities or otherwise, in consequence of
any assistance, advice or instructions whatsoever given or tendered in respect of any Vessel,
whether by way of pilotage, towage or mooring services, the provision of navigational facilities,
including buoys or other channel markings, or otherwise..
II. In all circumstances the Master of any Vessel shall remain solely responsible on behalf of his
owners for the safety and proper navigation of his Vessel and shall be liable for damage and any
loss, howsoever arising, including economic and consequential losses due to a Pilot’s neglect,
negligence error or mistake.
iii. The Vessel, its Master and owners shall be held responsible for any loss or damage caused to
the pilot boat or injuries to or death of its crew or the Pilot, during the process of the Pilot’s
embarkation on or disembarkation from the Vessel.
iv. Without prejudice to sections i and ii of this Article, the pilotage service provider may also be held
liable for damages or losses incurred as a consequence of wilful acts of or gross negligence by its
Pilots and other personnel performing their duty.
v. The Master of every Vessel is obliged to sign a declaration accepting the Conditions of use of the
Port / Terminal facilities issued by the Petroleum Ports Authority.
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7.1.5 Liability for damage to or loss of Goods
i. The Company and Petroleum Ports Authority shall be held harmless from any claims for damage
to or the loss of Goods from Vessels within the Port.
ii. The alleged damage shall always be reported in writing immediately by the Master of the Vessel to
the Harbour Master, who will inspect the damage before the Vessel sails.
iii. The inspection of such damage will in no way make the Company or Petroleum Ports Authority or
Harbour Master liable for such damage, and the Company, Petroleum Ports Authority and Harbour
Master will continue to be held harmless from any claims whatsoever and howsoever arising
submitted by the Vessel, Master or owner. The damage must be reported to the Harbour Master
and signed by the Master of the Vessel.
7.1.6 Law and jurisdiction
These Regulations and their interpretation are governed by the laws of the UAE and any disputes
shall be referred to the Abu Dhabi courts. Any claims shall be subject to any statute of limitations
imposed by these laws and/or courts.
7.2 Penalties
7.2.1 Fines – general
Any person who fails to comply with the laws of the UAE insofar as they are relevant to these
Regulations or fails to comply with judgments issued in implementation of the terms hereof shall be
punished with imprisonment for a period not exceeding two years and a fine or penalty of not more
than AED 400,000.00 (DIRHAMS FOUR HUNDRED THOUSAND) or with either of these two
penalties, without prejudice, to the right of the parties concerned to claim compensation, if applicable,
from the offender. This penalty is enforced by Article # 86 of Law # 12/1973 as amended by Article #
1 of Law # 7 / 1985.
7.2.2 Fines for violations not related to Safety and/or Pollution
A Vessel (the Master and/or the Vessel owner and Vessel management or charterer) or its Agent and
any other person that contravenes any of the provisions of these Regulations except those dealing
with safety and pollution shall be liable to a fine as defined in Law No 12 of 1973 or subsequent
amendment.
7.2.3 Fines for violations of Safety Regulations
A Vessel (the Master and/or the Vessel owner and Vessel management) or its Agent and any other
person that contravenes any of the provisions of these Regulations dealing with safety shall be liable
to a fine as defined in the Law No 12 of 1973 or subsequent amendment.
7.2.4 Fines for violations of Pollution regulations
In addition to the provisions in Article 5.3 and Article 7.1.1 above, a Vessel (the Master and/or the
Vessel owner and Vessel management and/or charterer) or its Agent and any other person that
contravenes any of the provisions of these Regulations dealing with pollution control shall be liable to
a fine as defined in the Law No 12 of 1973 or its subsequent amendment.
Version: 7
Date: 15 Nov 2018
8 ENFORCEMENT AND FINAL PROVISIONS
8.1 Enforcement
8.1.1 Harbour Master’s Special Directions
The Harbour Master may, in the interest of order and safety in Port issue instructions, in particular to
regulate navigation and berthing and for the purpose of preventing danger, damage and hindrance.
The person to whom an instruction is addressed, shall act accordingly without delay.
8.1.2 Exemption/Deviation from the rules
In exceptional cases the Harbour Master may give permission to deviate from these Regulations in
the interest of public safety.
8.1.3 Supervision / Powers of Petroleum Ports Authority officials
i. The Petroleum Ports Authority may appoint supervising officials with powers to enforce the
provisions of these Regulations. These may include amongst others, the Harbour Master, Port
Officers, and Investigators.
ii. Such persons shall be:
 Authorized to enter areas and spaces as far as reasonably required for the performance of
their duty.
 Authorized to inspect and to copy documents as far as reasonably required for the
performance of their duty.
 Authorized to perform measurements with their equipment, gather evidence and take
samples of substances, as far as reasonably required for the performance of their duty. (Any
sample taken or physical evidence collected will as far as possible be returned to the person
having title to the substance or evidence.)
 Authorized to issue instructions, give orders and stop activities in the interest of order, health
and safety, in connection with the rules and regulations for which they are appointed as
responsible officials.
iii. The person to whom an instruction is addressed by such officials, shall act accordingly without
delay.
8.1.4 Obligation to cooperate and to provide information
Anyone thus requested under Article 8.1.3 (iii) shall render all assistance and provide all information
to the officials mentioned in Article 8.1.3, which in their reasonable judgment is necessary for the
execution of the powers conferred on them in accordance with these Regulations.
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Date: 15 Nov 2018
8.1.5 Admission of PPA Officials to spaces and places
In the event that the Petroleum Ports Authority or Harbour Master consider it necessary, the Harbour
Master is duly authorized to enter premises and board the Vessel to carry out a full inspection of all
parts of the premises or Vessel with or without the Master’s consent or agreement.
8.1.6 Preventing departure and detention of a vessel
i. Where the Petroleum Ports Authority or Harbour Master or it’s delegated representative has
reasonable reason to believe that a marine pollutant has been discharged from a Vessel within the
Ports, or whilst within coastal and/or territorial waters, the Petroleum Ports Authority may, with an
appropriate order from the Abu Dhabi Court or other competent authority, prevent the departure of
the Vessel or cause the Vessel to be detained in Port until the owner or Agent of the Vessel
deposits with the Petroleum Ports Authority or otherwise to its satisfaction, an acceptable bank
guarantee or, at its sole discretion, an acceptable Protection & Indemnity (P&I) Club letter of
undertaking which, in the opinion of the Petroleum Ports Authority, shall be adequate to meet the
owner's liability and the costs incurred in removing the marine pollutant from the Port, coastal and
territorial waters of Abu Dhabi. Any delay in providing such security which, as a consequence,
causes a delay to the Vessel’s departure will cause a charge to be incurred, at the rate set out in
Article 3.2.5(iv).
ii. The Petroleum Ports Authority shall have the right to prevent the departure of a Vessel which in its’
opinion has caused damage to persons, quays or installation, equipment, in the Port, in the waters
in port or leading to the port, the environment or has failed to pay any lawful charges, including but
not limited to Port Dues, Port Charges, fines, until such time as the owner or Agent of the Vessel
deposits with the Petroleum Ports Authority or otherwise to its satisfaction a sum of money or
furnishes such equivalent security which would, in the opinion of the Petroleum Ports Authority, be
adequate to meet the owner's liability.
8.1.7 Appeal/Judicial Review
i. A person aggrieved by a decision or action taken by the Company, Petroleum Ports Authority
and/or Harbour Master under these Regulations may, within 30 calendar days after such decision
or action has been rendered or taken, respectively, apply to the Courts of Abu Dhabi, upon
paying the required court fee. The Abu Dhabi Courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction.
ii. The Abu Dhabi Court may set aside a decision which it finds:
 Arbitrary, an abuse of discretion or otherwise not consistent with law; or
 Not made consistent with the required procedures; or
 Unsupported by substantial evidence.
iii. The decision of the Abu Dhabi Court shall be final and binding.
8.2 Final Provisions
8.2.1 Existing Documents
Any Licenses, Permits, exemptions, certificates issued under previous version of the Port regulations
shall be deemed to be valid unless explicitly notified by the Petroleum Ports Authority.
8.2.2 Effective date
These Regulations shall enter into force as of date of their publication.
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Date: 15 Nov 2018
9 PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE CONVEYANCE OF PASSENGERS IN THE PORT
9.1 Application
This Article shall apply to the transfer of personnel between shore and Vessels or between Vessels
within the Port.
9.2 Permit requirement
No transfer service within the Port shall be operated without a Permit for the same being issued by
the Petroleum Ports Authority. All Craft engaged in such services shall be subject to the ADNOC Ship
Vetting requirements as part of this process.
9.3 Construction, Operation and Management
The Master, owner and operator of all such vessels used for the conveyance of passengers shall
ensure that all requirements that may be laid down by the Petroleum Ports Authority from time to time
with respect to the construction, manning, equipment levels, operation and management of such
vessels are fully complied with, in addition to any International and UAE national rules and regulations
governing the same.
Special attention shall be paid to ensure that adequate, properly certified and maintained Life Saving
appliances are always carried on board for all the passengers and crew that the vessel is licensed to
carry.
9.4 Insurance coverage
The Master, owner and operator of all such vessels shall ensure that adequate insurance cover is in
place for all crew and passengers. The Petroleum Ports Authority reserves the right to demand
production of the insurance certificate to satisfy itself of the adequacy of such certificate.
9.5 Embarkation and disembarkation facilities
i. Any facilities such as fixed and floating jetties or quays used for this purpose, shall always be
maintained in a proper state and be suitable for the embarking and disembarking of passengers on
and off board the vessels.
ii. Points of embarkation / disembarkation shall be well-lit and shall also be kept free of any
obstacles.
iii. The Master shall ensure that all persons embarking or disembarking use life jackets.
iv. A crew member shall always be available to assist with passenger embarkation / disembarkation.
Version: 7
Date: 15 Nov 2018

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Petroleum Ports Authority

DATE REV. NO. DESCRIPTION REFERENCE SECTION

DATE REV. NO. DESCRIPTION REFERENCE SECTION

© Petroleum Ports Authority

For the current version of this document please visit https://ppa.adnoc.ae

ii. Nothing in these Regulations shall be construed as over-riding :

 UAE Federal laws

Combustible Any liquid with a flash point below or equal to 60deg C.

Shall mean Vessels excepted from paying Port Charges. Excepted

Government Vessels owned by UAE Naval forces, CICPA.

Maritime International form (World Health Organization) declaring the health

Noxious Noxious liquid substance means any substance indicated in the

3.1 Administrative Provisions

3.1.2 Port Limits

i. Jebel Dhanna / Ruwais Port Limits

Description Latitude Longitude Note

ii. Das Zirku Island Port Limits

Description Latitude Longitude Note

iii. Mubarraz Island Terminal – Port Limits

To mean all waters encompassed by a line joining the following positions:

Description Latitude Longitude

iv. Verbal permission may be granted for a once-only conduct or act.

vi. Granting a License or Permit is normally done in writing.

x. A Permit/ License may be suspended partially or in whole or may be withdrawn partially or in

3.1.4 No transfer of licenses and permits

3.1.5 Obligations of holders of licenses or permits

3.2.1 Port tariffs

The tariff publication shall state:

 the natural or legal person(s) liable to pay the tariffs

 the possible exemptions;

 the subject of the tariff;

 the event for which the tariff will be due;

 the standard for the tariff;

 the method of levying;

 the starting time of the tariff;

 the time of ending the tariff;

 the terms of payment;

 the person or organization charged with the collection of the tariff;

non-payment, late payment and other violations of the tariff arrangement;

 the documents to be presented;

3.2.2 Tariffs of service providers in port

3.2.3 Payment of Port Charges

3.2.4 Port clearance

3.2.5 Schedule of Tariffs

 Maintenance of navigable channels and anchorages

 Port tugs for one berthing and one un-berthing

 Port Control office and services

 Tidal, meteorological and navigational data

 Port emergencies and Safety

ii. Port Charges

 Vessels of ≥ 4,500 NRT

iv. Charges for Delays

vi. Charges for Vessels not carrying out cargo operations

vii. Special Marine Services - Ruwais Port only

viii. Fire- fighting Tug Surcharge

3.2.6 Current Port Charges

S. No. DESCRIPTION AED

Detention of pilot / services (per hour or part thereof):

4 a. For vessels requiring tug for berthing / Un berthing 2500