UAE committed to 'zero Hormuz' strategy, says diplomat

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is committed to reducing its dependence on the Strait of Hormuz following the Iran war, as part of its "Zero Hormuz" strategy to diversify trade routes and supply chains, according to a diplomat. Mohammed Al Dhaheri, former director of the Strategy and Future Department at the UAE Foreign Ministry, stated that the strategy was in place before the war but will be intensified due to the current crisis.

The Strait of Hormuz will continue to be significant, but the UAE aims to develop alternative routes, including expanded port capacity, rail connectivity, and new economic corridors. Despite this, the diplomat emphasized the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation under international law and returning the strait to its pre-war status.

Prior to the conflict, approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and gas passed through the waterway. Iran complied with its threat to block the strait, leading to soaring energy prices and a global economic crisis. The UAE has been actively working on establishing regional logistics corridors, including with Oman, and constructing a new pipeline to enhance oil exports via the Gulf of Oman.

The ongoing expansion aligns with a plan announced by Dr Thani Al Zeyoudi in June to reduce the UAE's reliance on Hormuz to zero, regardless of whether the waterway reopens. The diplomat also mentioned the need for a permanent solution to the crisis and the importance of Gulf states' influence in addressing it. The UAE plans to diversify its security and defence partnerships as a result of the conflict, expanding both its domestic military and defence industry and engaging in discussions among GCC countries regarding new regional security dynamics.