Gulf Countries Plan to Bypass Strait of Hormuz, Saudi to Get Nuclear Bomb?
The Middle East is witnessing major geopolitical shifts as the UAE plans to bypass the Strait of Hormuz while the US-Saudi nuclear deal raises global security concerns.
The Strait of Hormuz has become one of the world's most important hotspots since the US-Israel-Iran conflict began.
Iran has repeatedly threatened to block this narrow sea route, which carries a large share of the world's oil. While such a move would affect global energy supplies, the UAE has already felt its impact.
Dubai's Jebel Ali Port, the largest man-made harbour in the world and the Middle East's busiest port, saw trade activities fall by nearly 90–95% after Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz. This caused major losses to the UAE's economy.
Now, the UAE has a new plan.
Instead of depending mainly on Jebel Ali, it wants to transform Fujairah Port, located on the country's east coast, into a major trade hub.
Why is this important?
Unlike Jebel Ali, ships leaving Fujairah can directly enter the Gulf of Oman without passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This means trade can continue even if the strait is blocked.
The project is still in the planning stage, with DP World in talks with the UAE government. If approved, the new port could be ready in just 18 months.
Meanwhile, another major geopolitical development has emerged.
On 22 July 2026, US President Donald Trump approved a landmark agreement with Saudi Arabia.
Under the deal, US company Westinghouse will help Saudi Arabia develop civilian nuclear technology over the next 30 years, mainly for electricity generation.
However, experts believe the agreement could also strengthen Saudi Arabia's ability to develop a nuclear weapon in the future, especially since the country has vast uranium reserves and has previously said it would seek nuclear weapons if Iran acquires one.
Adding to the discussion, journalist Bob Woodward wrote in his book War that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman once reportedly remarked, "I don't need uranium to make a bomb. I will just buy one from Pakistan."
With strategic trade routes, nuclear technology, and regional rivalries all evolving at the same time, the Middle East is entering a new and increasingly complex geopolitical phase.
