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CommoditiesHigh Impact•3 March 2026•

1 min read

Brent-Dubai Spread Hits Multi-Year High as Hormuz Tensions Escalate

Infographic of oil tankers and the Strait of Hormuz map with text showing a 9% oil price increase to 104.

Key Facts

1Brent’s premium to the Dubai benchmark widened to its highest level since 2022 due to supply disruption fears.

2Brent crude rose 7% to $83–$84 per barrel, while Dubai crude remained stagnant near $68.

The price premium of Brent crude over the Dubai benchmark has widened to its highest level since 2022 amid mounting fears of global supply disruptions. This significant divergence follows an escalation in geopolitical tensions involving Iran, raising concerns over a potential blockade or disruption in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude prices surged by 7% to reach the $83–$84 per barrel range, while Dubai crude remained relatively stagnant near $68. Consequently, the Brent-Dubai Exchange of Futures for Swaps (EFS) spread spiked above $6 per barrel, a sharp increase from less than $2 recorded just last week. This widening gap underscores a substantial risk premium being priced into global benchmarks as markets react to the threat of a supply 'freeze.' Analysts remain on high alert, noting that any actual disruption in the Strait could lead to further volatility and significantly higher energy costs.