Middle Eastern oil producers are accelerating multi-billion-dollar pipeline projects to reduce their reliance on the Strait of Hormuz, as regional conflict exposes the vulnerability of one of the world's most critical energy routes. With the waterway disrupted and oil prices under pressure, Gulf states are racing to redirect exports through the Red Sea, the Gulf of Oman and the Mediterranean in a bid to shield global supplies from future crises. Billions Poured Into New Routes Before the conflict with Iran escalated, around 15 million barrels of Gulf oil passed through the Strait of Hormuz every day. Governments across the region are now expanding or planning at least seven major pipeline projects designed to bypass the strategic chokepoint. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are leading the push. Existing pipelines are already operating close to full capacity, prompting fresh investment to move greater volumes of crude away from Iran's coastline. UAE and Iraq Step Up Plans The UAE is accelerating construction of a $3 billion pipeline linking Abu Dhabi's oilfields to the port of Fujairah on the Gulf of Oman. Once completed, it is expected to increase export capacity by more than 1.2 million barrels a day. Iraq is also pursuing new export corridors from Basra through Turkey and Syria, while discussions continue over a long-planned pipeline to Jordan's Red Sea port of Aqaba. The projects aim to reduce Baghdad's heavy dependence on Hormuz, where disruptions have already forced production cuts. New Routes Bring New Risks Analysts estimate the new infrastructure could divert up to 7.3 million barrels of oil a day by the end of 2028, insulating a significant share of Gulf exports from any prolonged Hormuz blockade. But the alternatives are far from risk-free. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have already threatened shipping in the Red Sea, while previous drone attacks have demonstrated that pipelines themselves remain vulnerable to regional conflict. Energy Security Takes Centre Stage The scramble reflects a broader shift in Gulf energy strategy. Producers increasingly view reliance on Hormuz as an unacceptable long-term risk, even if alternative routes are longer and more expensive. Yet one major challenge remains unresolved. Around one-fifth of the world's liquefied natural gas exports—much of it from Qatar—also relied on the Strait of Hormuz before the conflict, leaving global energy markets exposed despite the pipeline boom. Mideast oil producers step up plans to bypass the Strait of Hormuz
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