New Paths for Oil: The Battle for Control of Middle East Maritime Routes

The geopolitical landscape of the Middle East is undergoing transformation as countries in the region and other economic powers seek to diversify their oil export routes. The reason? Increasing instability at the Strait of Hormuz, which handles over half of global seaborne crude oil exports. Experts estimate that by 2030, more than $100 billion will be invested in new transport facilities and refineries aimed at reducing dependency on a channel controlled by Iran and the United States. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is leading this race with plans to double its export capacity through the construction of a second pipeline to Fujairah by 2027. Iraq has also partnered with Syria to rehabilitate an oil pipeline linking northern fields to the Mediterranean coast. These investments mark a new phase in Middle Eastern infrastructure, with significant impacts on global oil markets and regional geopolitical relations. In essence, the race to avoid the Strait of Hormuz is more than just a logistical project; it’s a clear manifestation of strategic influence battles in the global arena.