Islamabad — Pakistan has formally requested an alternative oil supply route from Saudi Arabia through the port of Yanbu on the Red Sea to safeguard its fuel supply chain after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik conveyed the request to Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki during a meeting on March 4, 2026, and received full assurance of support. With the majority of Pakistan’s energy imports passing through the troubled strait following the US-Israel strikes on Iran, the government is actively working to ensure uninterrupted supplies for the people.
Saudi Arabia has already agreed to prioritize shipments and dispatch one vessel from Yanbu, while a new cabinet committee is monitoring the situation closely. This timely brotherly cooperation highlights Pakistan’s proactive steps to protect the economy and daily lives of its citizens during these testing times.
Amid the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz and disruption of fuel supplies, Pakistan’s largest refinery, Pak-Arab Refinery Company (PARCO), has secured two crude oil cargoes from alternative routes. One shipment was arranged through Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC)… pic.twitter.com/vTcj6d6YBP
— The Strategic Insight (@Strategicprism0) March 4, 2026
Key Highlights
- Pakistan formally requested alternative oil supplies via Yanbu port from Saudi Arabia after Strait of Hormuz closure.
- Meeting held between Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki on March 4.
- Saudi Arabia assured full support and prioritization of supplies; one vessel already scheduled to lift crude for Pakistan.
- Government formed 18-member cabinet committee to review impact; no immediate emergency reported.
- Existing fortnightly price adjustment mechanism will continue to pass on global oil price rises to consumers.
- Imports from UAE via Fujairah remain unaffected as they bypass the closed route.
The minister briefed the ambassador on the daily monitoring of the evolving situation and stressed how crucial Saudi support has always been in challenging moments. It was a straightforward conversation — one that brought reassurance when people across the country are watching fuel prices and power availability with concern.
On the domestic front, the newly formed cabinet committee met on Monday and concluded there is no immediate crisis. Saudi finished products can now flow through the safer Red Sea route, and the committee will keep meeting regularly once London markets reopen to assess real cost trends.
Pakistan’s request for this alternative oil supply route reflects calm, forward-thinking leadership. By securing these backups early, the government is ensuring that everyday life — from transport to industry — continues without disruption. In these uncertain regional times, such brotherly ties with Saudi Arabia once again prove to be a pillar of strength for the nation, reinforcing confidence that Pakistan will navigate this challenge as it has navigated others before.
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