UAE develops alternative export routes amid Persian Gulf tensions
UAE authorities are expanding port capacity and building new pipelines to secure energy exports from the consequences of the conflict between the US and Iran.
Abdulrahman Sadikhli2 min read
The United Arab Emirates has begun creating alternative routes for energy exports and trade operations. As stated by UAE presidential advisor Anwar Gargash at the Hili Forum in Abu Dhabi, these measures are intended to prevent a situation where the country's economic activity could become a "hostage" to the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran.
As part of its diversification strategy, the UAE is expanding port capacity on the east coast and developing a network of pipelines, railways, and new trade corridors. Gargash emphasized that while relations with Tehran could potentially be restored in the future, the process of rebuilding trust following missile strikes and attacks on oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz could take decades.
The situation around the Strait of Hormuz, through which a fifth of global energy supplies previously passed, remains a key obstacle in negotiations between Washington and Tehran, mediated by Qatar and Pakistan. Iran insists on its rights to the strait jointly with Oman, which is not supported by Gulf countries. "Freedom of navigation is not a concession or a principle subject to revision under pressure," Gargash noted, adding that any long-term solution requires security guarantees against attacks from Iran.
The conflict, which began on February 28 following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, is currently at a stalemate. A preliminary ceasefire agreement reached in June has collapsed, and there is no progress in the peace process.
Regional security issues were also discussed at the forum. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari emphasized that a strategic alliance with the US is not enough to ensure stability. "We need to realize in the Gulf that the presence of international forces in the region and a strategic alliance with the US are very important, but they are not enough. Self-reliance in security matters is the only way forward," he stated.
Anwar Gargash supported this position, noting that the six-month conflict has demonstrated the importance of developing one's own national capabilities. According to him, Gulf countries have failed to develop a unified strategy in response to Iran's actions, despite shared concerns. "Our security is our top priority. When we are completely dependent on others, we cannot always count on it being their priority," the UAE presidential advisor concluded.
Source: al-monitor.com
