UAE to accelerate oil pipeline project to bypass Strait of Hormuz

The United Arab Emirates is accelerating the construction of its West-East Pipeline project, aiming to double export capacity through Fujairah. Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed announced the expedited timeline, stating the project will help "meet global demands." The pipeline is expected to be operational by 2027. This initiative is driven by Gulf nations seeking to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil transit route that has faced disruptions due to regional conflicts and attacks on energy infrastructure. The UAE's existing Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline (ADCOP) currently has a capacity of approximately 1.5 million barrels of oil per day and runs from Habshan to Fujairah.

The United Arab Emirates will complete a second oil pipeline bypassing the Strait of Hormuz by 2027 to secure crude exports. This project, directed by Abu Dhabi's crown prince, aims to mitigate disruptions to vital shipping lanes. The new pipeline is expected to double the UAE's export capacity via the existing Habshan-Fujairah route, allowing for increased shipments to the port of Fujairah on the Gulf of Oman. This strategic move follows the UAE's recent departure from OPEC and aims to bolster its oil export capabilities regardless of ongoing regional conflicts or the eventual reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The pipeline's exact capacity is undisclosed but could significantly increase the UAE's export volume.