Singapore – Crude oil exports from the Middle East rebounded strongly in September, reaching 12.8 million barrels per day (bpd), the highest daily volume since the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran erupted in February. The data, supplied by energy‑tracking firm Kpler, show that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates were the primary drivers of the rebound.
Saudi Arabia leads the recovery
Saudi Arabia, the region’s top exporter, was on track to ship about 5.4 million bpd this month, up sharply from 2.446 million bpd in August. The surge reflects a strategic diversion of oil from the Red Sea port of Yanbu after recent attacks damaged the kingdom’s East‑West pipeline. By routing more product through the Strait of Hormuz, Saudi producers restored a critical flow corridor.
UAE and other Gulf producers add to the lift
The United Arab Emirates also increased its output, contributing to the overall regional rise. While the combined exports of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Iran remain roughly 6 million bpd below the February peak of 18.8 million bpd, the September figures signal a clear upward trend after a steep decline earlier in the year.
Strait of Hormuz activity rebounds
Exports via the Strait of Hormuz were projected to hit about 7.4 million bpd in September. Kpler’s preliminary data indicate that 19 very large crude carriers, each capable of carrying roughly 2 million barrels of Saudi oil, exited the strait last week. The figures exclude vessels that may have turned off their Automatic Identification System transponders to avoid detection.
Historical context and future outlook
Before the February conflict, the strait typically handled around 125 large commercial vessels per day, accounting for roughly 20 % of the world’s daily crude oil and liquefied natural gas supply. The recent rebound suggests that Gulf producers are adapting to geopolitical pressures and maintaining a steady flow of energy to global markets.
Analysts note that while the September numbers are encouraging, the region still faces challenges, including ongoing security concerns and the need for infrastructure repairs. Continued monitoring of export trends will be essential for understanding how the market stabilizes in the months ahead.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
