Gulf Nations Seek Alternatives to Hormuz for Oil Exports

Aug 1, 2026

66 min

Aug 1, 2026 00:30

Figures behind rush for Hormuz oil export alternatives

## Rising Concerns Over Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for global oil shipments, has seen increased disruptions, prompting Gulf countries to explore alternative export routes. In 2025, approximately 14.95 million barrels per day (mbd) of crude oil passed through Hormuz, with Iran exporting 1.69 mbd.

## Saudi Arabia's Pipeline Expansion

Saudi Arabia is enhancing its East-West Pipeline, which connects Abqaiq to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. The pipeline's capacity was increased to 7 mbd in 2025, with plans to expand by an additional 2 mbd. This expansion could be completed by 2030/2031.

## UAE's Strategic Moves

The UAE is advancing its Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (ADCOP), which bypasses Hormuz by linking inland oil fields to Fujairah. The pipeline currently has a capacity of 1.8 mbd, with plans for a second pipeline to double export capacity through Fujairah by next year.

## Iraq's Pipeline Restoration

Efforts are underway to restore a pipeline connecting Iraq's oil fields to Syria's Mediterranean coast. The project, backed by an international consortium, aims for an initial capacity of 2 mbd, though political and investment challenges could delay progress.

## Kuwait and Bahrain's Prospects

Kuwait and Bahrain are in discussions with Saudi Arabia to potentially connect to its pipeline network, as neither currently has a route bypassing Hormuz.

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