Yanbu is located more than 1,000km from the kingdom’s oil fields, but close to the Suez Canal and therefore within reach of some of Saudi Arabia’s key export markets in Europe and North Africa.

The city is home to large-scale oil refining and petrochemicals production and is also being developed as a platform for conversion industries that will lengthen the supply chain of the kingdom’s hydrocarbon resources.

Feedstock is transported to Yanbu from the Eastern Province through an extensive pipeline network and this feeds the primary refining and petrochemicals operations. A port, Saudi Arabia’s second largest, is also used for the export of hydrocarbon products and at full capacity can ship 3 million barrels a day. It is also the main port for Medina.   

Yanbu is located close to some of the kingdom’s key markets in Europe and North Africa

Saudi Aramco has extensive refining operations at Yanbu, with a wholly-owned refinery and a number of joint ventures. Saudi Basic Industries Corporation also operates several petrochemicals units at the city. Yanbu is hoping to attract smaller conversion industries to foster job creation based around its heavy industrial plants. These will include plastics as well as metals and oil refining.

The Royal Commission for Jubail & Yanbu (RCJ&Y) offers the same incentives featured in Jubail for any potential investor, including tax holidays, customs exemptions and good land and utility rates. The commission is also planning to develop a strong non-oil sector based around the kingdom’s other mining activities. Phosphates, copper, iron ore and gypsum mines are located close to the city in the Western Province.

Due to its location on the Red Sea coast, Yanbu is considered a much more attractive city than Jubail and the RCJ&Y is keen on promoting the city as a tourist destination. A seafront project is under way that will include water sports facilities, particularly diving, as well as colleges and housing units.

The city has a population of 188,430, which is well-served by amenities such as housing, schools, recreational facilities and strong infrastructure links.