Arab oil producers are investing billions of dollars in new pipelines to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has been asserting control over global energy flows. Experts say these projects are now seen as necessary, unlike past grandiose plans that failed to materialize.
The United Arab Emirates is building a second pipeline to the port of Fujairah, aiming to double its export capacity by 2027. Iraq has signed a deal with Syria to rehabilitate a pipeline from its northern oil fields to Syria's Mediterranean coast. Saudi Arabia's existing East-West Pipeline, which moves crude from the Gulf to the Red Sea, is considered a model, and the kingdom is exploring ways to expand its capacity.
However, smaller states like Kuwait and Bahrain remain heavily dependent on the Strait of Hormuz and lack direct pipeline access. Kuwait has initiated talks with Saudi Arabia and the UAE about connecting to their pipeline networks.
Despite these efforts, analysts warn that pipelines are vulnerable to attack. The Houthis in Yemen, aligned with Iran, recently declared a blockade on Saudi shipping in the Red Sea. Iran has also attacked vessels from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Jordan in recent weeks. The balance of military power, experts say, now favors offense, making it difficult to protect these assets.