Global energy sector forced to recalibrate; Conflict hits debt issuance and listings activity; UAE’s non-oil sector faces unclear recovery period amid disruption
The regional war – and resulting disruption to oil and gas shipping – has triggered a major global energy security shock that is likely to recalibrate long-term decisions on how energy is produced and consumed.
The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz is exposing the vulnerability of Middle East supply chains and pushing import-dependent countries to strengthen energy security by expanding domestic fossil fuels, speeding up nuclear projects, and investing in renewables and storage.
At the same time, higher prices are encouraging producers unencumbered by reliance on the Strait to boost output.
Like the oil shocks of the 1970s, the conflict is likely to have lasting effects, reshaping energy policies and partnerships and accelerating diversification away from existing arrangements. Read more here.
The conflict is also undermining the business case for Middle East liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, as prices rise, demand drops and confidence in the reliability of the region’s suppliers is eroded.
May’s market focus is on the UAE, where disruption from the Iran war has challenged every assumption behind the country’s non-oil model.
We hope our valued subscribers enjoy the May 2026 issue of MEED Business Review.
Must-read sections in the May 2026 issue of MEED Business Review include:
> REGIONAL LNG: War undermines business case for Middle East LNG
> PIF STRATEGY: Public Investment Fund approves 2026-30 strategy
> GULF PROJECTS INDEX: Gulf index plateaus despite ceasefire
> MARCH 2026 CONTRACTS: Middle East contract awards
> ECONOMIC DATA: Data drives regional projects
> OPINION: The road to hell is paved with gold
> BUSINESS OUTLOOK: Finance, oil and gas, construction, power and water contracts