UAE secures food supplies and diversifies trade routes as Hormuz conflict disrupts shipping

The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Economy said food supplies are a strategic priority that cannot be compromised amid the renewed US‑Iran clash in the Strait of Hormuz. It has introduced measures such as simplified import controls, price monitoring and regular meetings with companies to keep essential goods flowing and prices stable. Supermarket chains like Spinneys and Choithrams are absorbing higher freight, fuel and insurance costs to avoid passing inflation to consumers.

With the Hormuz waterway facing prolonged disruptions, the UAE is also accelerating plans to lessen its dependence on the strait. Foreign Trade Minister Thani Al Zeyoudi outlined investments in alternative Gulf ports – Khor Fakkan, Fujairah and Dibba – and a new facility on the east coast. While exporters increasingly use Oman's ports of Duqm, Salalah and Sohar, the UAE aims to maintain its $1 trillion annual non‑oil trade by creating a diversified logistics corridor from Singapore to Europe.