Drone Incident Disrupts Oil Loading at UAE’s Fujairah Port
Oil loading activity at the Port of Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates has partially stopped after a drone related incident triggered a fire at the major energy hub.
Fujairah is one of the world’s largest bunkering centers. It also serves as a key export point for crude shipments from the Gulf region.
The terminal handles exports of the UAE’s Murban crude grade. It processes around 1 million barrels of oil per day. That equals roughly 1 percent of global oil demand.
The disruption comes as tensions across the Gulf continue to rise. Recent U.S. strikes targeted Iran’s Kharg Island oil export facilities.
Fire Reported After Drone Interception
Witnesses reported two columns of smoke rising near the terminal area shortly after the incident.
Authorities said security forces intercepted a drone approaching the port area. Debris from the interception then fell inside the complex.
The debris sparked a fire within the facility. Civil defense teams quickly responded and brought the blaze under control.
Officials confirmed that no injuries occurred. Authorities have not yet said how long the disruption may last.
Strategic Oil Export Hub
The Port of Fujairah plays a major role in global tanker logistics. The facility sits outside the Strait of Hormuz. This location allows crude exports to bypass the narrow waterway.
However, security risks across the Gulf have increased sharply. Military operations targeting Iranian energy infrastructure began on February 28.
The International Energy Agency warned that the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz created the largest oil supply disruption in history.
As a result, several Gulf producers have reduced oil output. The UAE is among the countries affected.
Threats Extend to Other UAE Ports
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard warned that U.S. interests across the UAE could face further attacks. The warning includes ports, docks, and military facilities.
Iranian media also reported threats against other major UAE ports. These include Jebel Ali Port in Dubai and Khalifa Port in Abu Dhabi.
Authorities reportedly advised residents to avoid areas near these facilities.
Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company has not commented on the situation at Fujairah.
Earlier in the week, ADNOC shut down the Ruwais refinery. A separate drone related fire triggered that closure.
Shipping Industry Watching Closely
The incident highlights growing risks for tanker operations and energy infrastructure across the Gulf.
Shipowners, charterers, and energy traders are monitoring the situation closely. Any disruption at Fujairah could affect crude supply flows and bunker availability.
As tensions continue to rise, maritime security around key oil export terminals remains a major concern for global shipping markets.
