Saudi Arabia maintains reliable oil supplies despite regional tensions

Saudi Arabia used the East-West Pipeline to help maintain oil flows to global markets amid regional disruptions

Saudi Arabia’s crude oil supplies averaged around 7.9 million barrels per day from the beginning of the year through the end of August 2026, down nearly 14.1% compared with an average of 9.2 million barrels per day during the same period of 2025.

The Ministry of Finance said in its 2027 pre-budget statement that the Kingdom maintained the continuity and reliability of its oil supplies to global markets despite geopolitical developments in the region, disruptions to maritime traffic and attacks on oil facilities.

It added that the Kingdom benefited from alternative export routes via the East-West Pipeline, reflecting the resilience it has invested in for more than four decades and its ability to navigate regional challenges and ensure continued oil flows to global markets.

According to the statement, oil markets experienced heightened volatility during 2026, with the monthly average price of Brent crude ranging between $64.6 and $103.7 per barrel.

Brent crude averaged around $87 per barrel from the beginning of the year through the end of August 2026, up 23.9% from the same period of 2025.

The ministry attributed the rise in oil prices to supply disruptions in the region amid maritime traffic disruptions, decisions by several shipping companies to suspend vessel movements through certain sea routes, attacks on oil facilities, and lower global oil inventories.