UAE fast-tracks alternative energy and trade corridors
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The United Arab Emirates is accelerating alternative routes for energy exports and trade to reduce its exposure to disruption from the war with Iran, presidential adviser Anwar Gargash said on Monday. “Our energy exports will not be held hostage, nor will our trade and economic activity,” Gargash told the Hili Forum in Abu Dhabi, saying the government was expanding port…
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is accelerating plans for alternative energy exports and trade routes to minimize the impact of conflict with Iran on its economic activities, according to presidential adviser Anwar Gargash. Speaking at the Hili Forum in Abu Dhabi, Gargash highlighted the government's efforts to expand port capacity on the eastern coast, strengthen pipelines, railways, and establish alternative cargo corridors.
These infrastructure improvements aim to provide the UAE with greater flexibility in moving oil, goods, and other cargo should Gulf shipping lanes be disrupted. Gargash emphasized that maritime security, trade, and energy security have become top priorities for the UAE due to increased tensions and attacks by Iran. Iran has been accused of launching approximately 3,300 missiles and drones at the UAE over several weeks, targeting civilian infrastructure along the Strait of Hormuz.
Gargash stressed that no single state should control the strategically important waterway, and reiterated that freedom of navigation should not be a concession or something to be renegotiated under pressure. He also called for credible guarantees against further strikes on Gulf states. The UAE's eastern coastline provides direct access to the Gulf of Oman, outside the Strait of Hormuz, and expanding ports there along with improving connections through pipelines and rail infrastructure will enhance the country's resilience in the face of potential disruptions.
Gargash acknowledged that while individual Gulf states have shown resilience, the region has not yet developed a unified strategic response to the Iranian challenge. He emphasized that strategic autonomy does not mean distancing from established security partnerships, such as with the United States, but rather strengthening national capabilities to protect the UAE's population, economy, and trade.
Despite the attacks, the UAE economy has continued to expand, with non-oil foreign trade growing by 13% in the first half of the year.
Written by urgent.news from Arabian Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
