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The UAE structural steel market continues to face logistics disruptions, with congestion at UAE ports and uncertainty over vessel movements through the Strait of Hormuz complicating imported supply. Domestic demand remains firm, although delays and higher shipping costs are affecting deliveries.
Chinese JIS beams are currently indicated at around USD 610-620 per ton CFR Jebel Ali, down from USD 625-635 per ton in the September 18 assessment. Chinese channels and UPN/UPE sections remain broadly stable at USD 595-605 per ton CFR Jebel Ali, while IPE/IPEAA sections remain broadly stable at USD 640-650 per ton.
Local UAE selling prices for angles have declined by around USD 10-20 per ton over the past month. Smaller sizes are currently indicated at USD 720-740 per ton EXW, while larger sizes are around USD 850-870 per ton EXW.
Oman’s Jazeera is offering angles at around USD 735-745 per ton delivered.
MESTEEL’s UAE benchmark for beams remains unchanged at USD 750-760 per ton EXW. No new offers for European UB/UC beams have been heard.
Market insiders said congestion at Fujairah port has not eased, with reported vessel waiting times extending to around three months. Some shipping contacts warned that waiting time could reach three to six months. The congestion is partly attributed to limited berth capacity for bulk and general cargo.
Several bulk vessels reportedly crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend and reached Jebel Ali, but vessel movements remain uncertain. Market insiders said high insurance premiums and crew-risk bonuses are adding to shipping costs.
Traders said continued port congestion, higher shipping costs and uncertainty over delivery schedules are complicating import planning, even as domestic demand for structural steel remains firm.