Restrictions Imposed on Vessels Linked to Iran by Saudi Arabia and Bahrain *Update*

Bahrain:  Advance permissions needed for port entry following Iranian port calls – 16 March 2016

P&I correspondents (GAC Bahrain) have advised that port entry permission may now be granted for non-Iranian flagged vessels which are arriving direct from Iran, or which have called in Iranian ports within the past 3 port calls.

Permission must be obtained from the Bahraini coast guard, customs and the defence forces. Obtaining permission can take some time and ample notification should be given so as to avoid delays. 

Local port agent should be given ample notice so that the necessary permissions can be applied for.

16 February 2016 – Update

Correspondents in Jeddah, Mutual Marine Services Al Mushtaraka Ltd, have provided further information on the trade restrictions imposed by Saudi Arabia as a result of the deteriorating relations with Iran.

In addition to the prohibition of Iranian flagged vessels entering Saudi Arabian ports, it has been advised that the import or transhipment of cargo or merchandise of Iranian origin will not be permitted. The correspondent understands that any vessel carrying Iranian cargo will not be permitted to call at a Saudi Arabian port.

11 February 2016

Club correspondents have reported that Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have prohibited the entry of Iranian flagged vessels. Bahrain has also banned Bahraini flagged vessels from entering Iranian ports.

Bahrain also bans Vessels having called at Iranian Ports

Of concern to the wider shipping community are reports that the Ministry of Ports and Maritime Affairs issued an order stating that any vessel, regardless of flag, that has called at an Iranian port within its last three ports will require approval from the Bahrain security authorities before entering Bahraini waters. Vessels sailing directly from Iran to the ports of Bahrain are prohibited. 

Further industry news items will be posted as the situation develops.