Saudi Aramco activates alternative export routes via Yanbu port amid Strait of Hormuz closure

2026-03-24 - 08:59

Saudi Arabia's national oil company, Saudi Aramco, has activated alternative routes to ensure energy shipments continue following Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The company announced it is maintaining exports through Yanbu Port on the Kingdom's west coast, securing global supply amid the ongoing disruption. Alternative routes operational In a statement to Anadolu, Saudi Aramco confirmed that shipments are continuing via different routes while disruptions persist in the Strait of Hormuz. "Saudi Aramco is maintaining reliable energy supply through alternative export routes via Yanbu Port in response to changing regional conditions," the company said. Export volumes Shipping plans have been revised according to new conditions, with the company reporting an average of 3.66 million barrels per day exported from Yanbu over the past five days. The west coast port provides a critical outlet for Saudi oil that bypasses the Strait of Hormuz, allowing shipments to reach global markets via the Red Sea. Operational continuity "Our teams continue to work closely with our customers to maximize shipments safely and efficiently. Shipping plans are being updated in accordance with new conditions, and customers are being regularly informed. Our priority during this process is to maintain safe and uninterrupted operations while supporting market stability," the company added. Conflict context The US and Israel launched joint attacks on Iran on Feb. 28, killing over 1,340 people according to Iranian authorities, including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated by effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz, which normally handles about 20 million barrels of oil daily, pushing global prices above $116 per barrel. Saudi Aramco's ability to reroute exports through Yanbu helps mitigate the supply disruption.