Iraq and UAE Secure Oil Export Routes to Bypass Hormuz Risks

Iraq and the United Arab Emirates are accelerating the expansion of alternative oil export routes to mitigate risks associated with the Strait of Hormuz. This strategic shift follows recurring regional tensions that threaten the primary maritime corridor responsible for the transit of approximately 20 to 30 percent of global oil consumption. Diversifying Export Logistics The Strait of Hormuz serves as the main outlet for Iraqi crude shipped from the southern port of Basra. Currently, Iraq is the second-largest producer in OPEC, and any disruption to the waterway poses a direct risk to its national revenue. To counter this, Iraqi officials are reviewing options to increase export capacities through northern pipelines and exploring logistical synergies with regional partners to ensure supply continuity. The UAE has already established significant infrastructure to bypass the chokepoint through the Habshan-Fujairah pipeline. This 370-kilometre link can transport 1.5 million barrels per day from Abu Dhabi’s onshore fields directly to the port of Fujairah on the Gulf of Oman. By leveraging this existing capacity and developing new storage facilities, the UAE provides a blueprint for…