Dubai, September 28, 2026 — Crude oil exports from major Middle Eastern producers increased sharply in September as shipments through the Strait of Hormuz began to recover, according to preliminary data from energy analytics firm Kpler cited by Reuters.

Exports from key producers including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait and Iran are expected to reach around 12.8 million barrels per day in September.

Saudi Arabia has been a major contributor to the increase, with its crude exports projected at around 5.4 million barrels per day, up significantly from August.

However, regional exports remain below levels recorded before the disruption to oil flows. Shipments through the Strait of Hormuz are expected to reach approximately 7.4 million barrels per day this month.

The developments are being closely watched by global energy markets because the Strait of Hormuz is a major route for international oil shipments. Recent uncertainty surrounding US-Iran relations has also contributed to volatility in oil prices.