Saudi Global Ports Handles FATIMA-2 Bulk Salt Loading at Dammam Port
Shipping Arabia, October 18, 2026 – Saudi Global Ports (SGP) Multipurpose Terminals has welcomed the 32,000-dwt vessel FATIMA-2 on its first call at King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam, conducting a tailored bulk salt loading operation that allows trucks to access the vessel directly through its side ramp. The operation demonstrates the terminal’s ability to adapt cargo handling methods to different vessel configurations while supporting bulk cargo exports from Saudi Arabia’s eastern ports to Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets.
The operation involved coordinating the loading arrangements to accommodate the specific requirements of bulk salt cargo and the vessel’s side ramp configuration. This approach enabled trucks to drive directly onto the vessel’s deck for loading, providing a practical solution suited to the shipment and the vessel’s design.
Direct Truck-to-Vessel Loading for Bulk Salt Cargo
Saudi Global Ports coordinated the FATIMA-2 bulk salt loading operation through its multipurpose terminal facilities at King Abdulaziz Port.
The handling method was tailored to the vessel’s configuration, allowing trucks to access the deck directly through its side ramp. This arrangement provided a loading solution that accommodated the cargo requirements without relying exclusively on conventional quayside cargo transfer arrangements.
According to SGP, the operation reflects the flexibility of its multipurpose terminals in developing practical handling solutions for different cargo types and vessel requirements.
The company also highlighted the vessel’s operational capabilities through a three-stage cargo handling concept. This involves vehicles driving directly onto the vessel, loading cargo and utilizing the vessel’s self-unloading capability when required.
The 32,000-dwt FATIMA-2 combines direct vehicle access with cargo handling features that can accommodate different operational requirements.
Supporting Bulk Cargo Exports Through Dammam
The vessel’s first call forms part of Saudi Global Ports’ activities supporting continued and efficient exports to GCC markets through Saudi Arabia’s eastern ports.
King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam serves as the location for the operation, with SGP Multipurpose Terminals coordinating the cargo handling arrangements.
The operation illustrates how terminal handling procedures can be adapted to individual vessel designs and cargo characteristics. In this case, the combination of bulk salt cargo, truck transportation and direct access through the vessel’s side ramp determined the loading approach.
Saudi Global Ports, a member of PSA Group, emphasized its ability to provide tailored solutions for different cargo handling needs.
The FATIMA-2 bulk salt loading operation highlights the practical application of flexible cargo handling arrangements at King Abdulaziz Port, supporting the movement of bulk commodities through Saudi Arabia’s eastern maritime gateways.
Source: Saudi Global Ports
