Iraq is strategically located along the Persian Gulf and has several key seaports vital to its trade and economic activities. These ports facilitate the majority of the nation’s imports and exports, especially oil shipments. Below is an overview of the largest ports in Iraq.
The largest ports in Iraq – top 4
The largest port in Iraq – a map
Umm Qasr Port (IQUQR)
Umm Qasr Port is Iraq’s primary deep-water seaport, situated along the Gulf Coast. It is part of the Maritime Silk Road. Collectively, the port has 21 berths spanning approximately 5,000 meters. It can handle diverse cargo like liquid and dry bulk cargo, containerized cargo, and general cargo. There is a bank and a logistics depot on the premises.
- Annual container throughput in 2023: 1,544,795 TEU
- Key commodities: containers, grain, vehicles, general merchandise
Al Maqal Port (Port of Basra) (IQBSR)
Al Maqal Port is located in Basra city near the Persian Gulf. It is one of Iraq’s oldest ports. It consists of 39 berths for general cargo, RO-RO, and other cargo. The downside is that its draft is 6-7 meters, so it is unsuitable for medium-sized vessels and above.
Al Basra Oil Terminal
The Iraqi Al Basra Oil Terminal is critical for the country’s economy, handling a significant portion of the nation’s crude oil exports. It is positioned in the Persian Gulf.
Khor Al Amaya Oil Terminal
Khor Al Amaya Oil Terminal is situated southeast of the Shatt Al Arab River. It is one of the key ports in Iraq’s oil export operations.
Al Faw Grand Port (IQFAW; under development)
The Al Faw Grand Port is a project aimed at enhancing Iraq’s maritime capabilities. It is supposed to be completed in 2025. The first phase includes a five-berth container terminal with an initial capacity of 3.5 million TEUs per year. Full operation is expected by 2030.
