Saudi Aramco is increasingly bypassing the Strait of Hormuz to ensure the steady delivery of its oil, opting to facilitate shipments from locations outside the volatile waterway. According to industry insiders, the state-owned giant has been utilizing ship-to-ship (STS) transfers near Fujairah and Sohar to supply customers, particularly in Asia. This move comes as the company seeks to maintain reliable export routes following the geopolitical tensions that have significantly disrupted transit through the strait.

Recent shipping data confirms that several supertankers, including those bound for major Chinese refiners like Sinopec, PetroChina, and Sinochem, have received their cargo through these offshore transfers. By offloading oil outside the strait, Aramco is successfully navigating the logistical complexities caused by regional instability. While the company has remained quiet regarding its specific tactical shifts, the consistent volume of oil moving to China through these alternative channels highlights a strategic effort to protect its market share and ensure supply chain continuity during uncertain times.