Al-Ruwais Port, the second commercial port, is located at the northern tip of Qatar. The port plays the role of an additional access facility to promote the regional commercial shipments and to revive and invigorate the economy of the northern part of Qatar.
Besides the usual handling of general cargoes, the port is now handling the increased demand of foodstuff and other commodities. Al Ruwais port provides a ready solution by acting as gateway for fresh commodities from neighboring countries. These also included frozen and chilled commodities arriving in reefer containers.
Ruwais Port has witnessed recently substantial improvements by Mwani Qatar in an effort to rehabilitate and align it with international ports standards. The navigation channel at Ruwais Port is dredged to 5 meters, new docks are built at 7 meters depth and six marine berths constructed at a combined total length of 1414 meters, to be able to accommodate commercial vessels.
The navigation channel and port docks will be further expanded and dredged to reach 10 meters depth during the final stage of Al-Ruwais Port upgrade project. This will facilitate the entry of all small and medium ships and cruise ships, in addition to further trade expansion with neighboring countries.
Al Mina Market
Under the patronage of the Ministry of Transport & Communications, Mwani Qatar, which manages the Al-Ruwais port, has opened a unique market place where traditions meet trade.
Al Mina Market - Ruwais will be an independent element of Al-Ruwais port where sailors/traders from around the region and the Indian subcontinent have the opportunity to trade products from their respective countries. Al Mina Market is a traditional market place to keep up with the history of this trade which dates back to the middle ages that once drove the world economy.
Apart from contributing to the revival of economic activity in the northern regions of Qatar, the port also envisages to become a trading hub for goods from neighbouring countries.
The market is about 3,200 square meters in size with each shop space occupied by traders who change regularly. Some of the foodstuff you would see are canned foods, chips, dates, local sweets, spices, dried fruits, nuts, juices and so much more. Shoppers would also find some functional furniture, interior decoration items such as wall paintings, and water fountains.
Al-Mina Market is certainly worth the long drive up to Ruwais to pay a visit to.
Open daily 8am-6pm. Al Ruwais Port (4012 0600).
