Archive · 22 Sep 2026
Saudi Arabia Turns to Sohar Transfers Amid Hormuz Constraints
Saudi Arabia has been looking for ways to move its oil without using the usual route through the Strait of Hormuz.
For now, it is preparing to use transfers at the Omani port of Sohar.
Saudi Aramco has spoken with customers in China, South Korea and Japan about collecting the oil there.
This plan may make shipping more expensive for those customers.
Saudi Arabia may lower its prices to help cover some of the extra cost.
The company expects to depend heavily on these transfers for now.
The information came from people familiar with the matter.
The article does not say how long this arrangement will last.
Saudi Aramco is preparing to rely heavily on crude transfers for the time being.
The company has discussed the arrangements with customers in China, South Korea and Japan.
Buyers may collect Saudi crude from the Omani port of Sohar.
The transfers would increase shipping costs for buyers.
Saudi Arabia is expected to offset at least part of those costs through lower crude prices.
- Who
- Saudi Aramco, Saudi Arabia’s state oil company, and customers in China, South Korea and Japan.
- What
- Saudi Aramco is preparing to move Saudi crude through transfers involving the Omani port of Sohar.
- When
- The company is preparing to rely on the transfers for now after months of seeking alternatives.
- Where
- The planned crude pickups would take place at Sohar, Oman.
- Why
- The arrangement is intended to provide a route for Saudi crude while bypassing constraints involving the Strait of Hormuz.
- Company
- Saudi Aramco
- Commodity
- Saudi crude oil
- Transfer location
- Port of Sohar, Oman
- Potential customers
- Buyers in China, South Korea and Japan
- Buyer impact
- Higher shipping costs
- Saudi response
- Expected lower prices to offset at least some additional costs
- Duration
- The transfers are expected to be used for now