Saudi Arabia's East-West Pipeline and Gulf Investments in Africa Boost Energy and Food Security

Saudi Arabia has raised the capacity of its 746‑mile East‑West pipeline to 7 million barrels per day, aiming to divert more than 10 million barrels daily away from the volatile Strait of Hormuz and enhance regional energy security. The move is part of a broader Gulf strategy to develop overland routes that protect global oil supplies.

At the same time, Gulf states are channeling billions of dollars into Africa. The UAE’s AD Ports Group signed a $500 million deal to build a terminal at Angola’s Port of Luanda, while Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund seeks stakes in African copper, nickel and lithium projects. Qatar and Saudi Arabia have also acquired or leased millions of hectares of arable land in Sudan, Ethiopia and Tanzania to secure food supplies. These investments target infrastructure, energy, mining and agriculture, expanding the Gulf’s geopolitical and economic influence.

Together, the pipeline upgrade and African investments reflect a coordinated effort by Gulf countries to diversify supply chains, reduce reliance on contested trade routes, and ensure long‑term stability for energy and food markets.