Explained: How UAE And Saudi Arabia Bypass Closed Strait Of Hormuz To Export Oil | West Asia War

How UAE and Saudi Arabia Keep Oil Flowing When the Strait of Hormuz Is Blocked

When the Strait of Hormuz closed during the West Asia conflict, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia turned to their own pipelines to keep crude moving to global markets. The result is a network that bypasses the narrow waterway and delivers oil to Gulf ports that can ship it worldwide.

Why the Strait of Hormuz Is a Global Bottleneck

The Strait of Hormuz is the only maritime outlet for about 20 % of the world’s oil and gas. A closure means that any tanker bound for Europe, Asia or the Americas must find an alternate route, adding time, cost and risk. Shipping companies therefore look for ways to avoid the choke point entirely.

UAE’s Pipeline Workarounds

Habshan–Fujairah (ADCOP)

The UAE’s Habshan–Fujairah pipeline, also called the Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline, runs from the Habshan fields to the port of Fujairah on the Arabian Gulf. From there, oil can be loaded onto tankers that sail around the Arabian Peninsula, bypassing the Strait.

Second Pipeline

After Iran blocked tankers in the Strait, the UAE completed a second pipeline that also feeds into Gulf ports. The dual‑pipeline system has become essential for maintaining export volumes during periods of geopolitical tension.

Saudi Arabia’s East‑West Pipeline and Red Sea Route

East‑West Pipeline

Saudi Arabia’s East‑West pipeline carries crude from the eastern fields to the western coast, where it can be shipped via the Red Sea. This route sidesteps the Strait entirely.

Red Sea Bypass

Saudi Arabia was constructing a pipe that would run over the Red Sea, but Iran destroyed it during the war. The project was later resumed, and the pipeline is now a key alternative for Saudi exports.

Operational Impact for Shipping Professionals

• Route Planning – With pipelines feeding Gulf ports, vessels can chart a course that avoids the Strait, reducing transit time by up to 12 % for some routes.
• Port Capacity – Fujairah and western Saudi ports must handle increased tanker traffic, requiring robust berth management and crew scheduling.
• Security Considerations – Bypassing the Strait removes the risk of naval blockades but introduces new security concerns in the Red Sea and Gulf waters.
• Maintenance and Reliability – Pipeline integrity is critical; any rupture could halt exports and trigger market volatility.

Decision Criteria for Operators and Shippers

• Cost vs. Time – Pipeline exports are cheaper per barrel but may involve longer sea legs; tankers through the Strait are faster but subject to geopolitical risk.
• Port Infrastructure – Evaluate berth availability, loading rates, and hinterland connectivity at Gulf ports.
• Security Risk Assessment – Compare the likelihood of interdiction in the Strait versus the Red Sea or Gulf waters.
• Regulatory Compliance – Ensure that all export routes meet IMO and local maritime regulations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming pipelines are infallible; regular inspections and maintenance are essential.
• Underestimating the time required to reroute vessels to alternative ports.
• Failing to coordinate with port authorities for berth scheduling during surge periods.
• Neglecting crew training on new navigation routes and security protocols.

Why This Matters to the Shipping Industry

Understanding how Gulf states keep oil flowing when the Strait of Hormuz is closed equips operators, cadets and shipping professionals to make informed routing and logistics decisions that safeguard revenue and safety.

Next Step

For deeper insight into pipeline operations and port logistics, consult Marine Insight 360’s Marine Machinery and Shipboard Operations sections.