Saudi Arabia Eyes 1.2M bpd Oil Boost via Gas Pipeline Conversion
Key Facts
Saudi Arabia is considering converting a gas pipeline to carry crude oil, a move that could add 1.2 million barrels per day (bpd) of capacity within seven to eight weeks. InvestingLive reported that the Saudi Energy Ministry aims to increase total pipeline export capacity to 10 million bpd over the next two to three years. The plan is designed to mitigate supply risks and bypass maritime disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The potential increase in exports may face constraints due to loading capacity at the Yanbu port, which is limited to approximately 4.5 million bpd. This infrastructure push follows remarks by Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman on October 6, 2026, noting that flows had recovered to nearly 6 million bpd. In related energy data, the API crude oil stock change showed a decrease of 2.09 million barrels for the week ending October 6, 2026.
Latest Updates · 3
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Update: Brent crude prices are currently hovering around $105 per barrel as of October 13, 2026. This price level reflects ongoing threats to Saudi oil infrastructure, underscoring the strategic importance of the Kingdom's plans to secure alternative export routes.
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Update: Saudi Arabia reported fresh missile and drone attacks on October 13, 2026. The Saudi-led coalition confirmed the interception of these threats, underscoring the strategic importance of securing alternative energy supply routes amid heightened regional risks.
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Update: Global oil prices have retreated, with Brent crude trading at $105.43 per barrel and WTI at $92.60 per barrel (trading October 13, 2026). This pullback follows a session where prices had climbed above the $106 threshold.