Amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Gulf region, countries in the area have begun activating alternative logistics corridors to prevent potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime trade chokepoints.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Oman are reorganizing cargo flows through new land, rail and port connections to ensure that regional trade continues without interruption. These measures effectively create alternative cargo routes to mitigate risks related to the Strait of Hormuz.

In Saudi Arabia, a new logistics corridor program launched by the Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) is linking Red Sea ports with Gulf markets. Jeddah Islamic Port, King Abdullah Port, the Yanbu ports, NEOM Port and Jazan ports have been positioned as key hubs within the new system. Containers arriving at these ports are transported by road to markets such as Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE and Oman, reducing trade dependence on the Strait of Hormuz.

UAE Identifies Alternative Routes to Hormuz

The United Arab Emirates is implementing a similar strategy. Part of the cargo traffic is being redirected to east-coast ports on the Gulf of Oman, including Fujairah and Khor Fakkan. Cargo arriving at these ports is then transported by road by DP World to Jebel Ali Port and other logistics centers.

At the same time, the national rail network operated by Etihad Rail has become an important part of the supply chain. Over the past nine days, more than 100 train trips have transported approximately 459,000 tonnes of cargo and nearly 8,000 containers.

Oman, meanwhile, is positioning the ports of Sohar, Duqm and Salalah as regional alternative gateways. The government has introduced new measures to accelerate customs and logistics processes, while facilitating transit operations through the Bayan electronic customs system.

Gulf Countries Handle a Significant Share of Cross-Border E-Commerce Shipments

These developments are not only critical for energy and industrial supply chains but also for global e-commerce logistics. As a major trade hub between Europe and Asia, Gulf countries handle a significant share of cross-border e-commerce shipments.

With the development of logistics corridors that bypass the Strait of Hormuz, e-commerce companies can maintain more secure and uninterrupted supply chains, particularly for electronics, fashion and consumer goods that require fast delivery.

According to experts, the new logistics infrastructure being established in the Gulf will not only serve as a safeguard during periods of crisis but will also strengthen the region’s strategic role in global trade and e-commerce logistics in the long term.