Key insights from DFAT’s Middle East briefing
Austrade, consular officials on the ground in the Middle East, and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) updated businesses on the broadening conflict in the Middle East.
There are continuing disruptions to shipping, air travel, and energy trade with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, with officials emphasising the unpredictability of the conflict. To date, the decision to avoid conflict areas is driven by individual insurers, shipping lines, and airlines.
Perishable commodities are being re-routed to air freight, while non-perishable goods are being managed via transshipping to Saudi Arabia and Oman.
At this stage, planned commercial exhibitions have been deferred from March to May. Trade missions planned for later this year are expected to proceed.
Snapshot: Ports, shipping and air freight
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
- Most ports outside the Strait of Hormuz remain accessible
- Etihad and Qatar Airways have opened additional air freight capacity
Current cost examples:
- Approx. USD $2,000 from Khor Fakkan to Dubai
- Up to USD $12,000 from Dubai to Khor Fakkan
Saudi Arabia and Oman
- The Jeddah and King Abdullah ports in Saudi Arabia remain open
- Oman is increasingly being used as a logistical alternative
- Salalah Port in Oman is currently closed (12 March 2026) due to a drone attack
Current cost examples:
- Container costs up 60–80%, with surcharges driven by war risk and fuel costs
Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain
- Limited direct shipping due to Hormuz constraints
- Reliance on trans-shipment via alternative routes
Steps for businesses
On the ground: If you or your colleagues are based in Persian Gulf countries, Israel or Lebanon, DFAT advises registering for updates from their Middle East conflict crisis hub. Those in the Middle East are encouraged to stay informed by following the social media updates of the relevant Australian Embassy.
Check your shipping status: If you have goods in transit or ready to export, contact your customs broker, freight company or shipping agent to confirm impacts, timeframes and any emerging risks. Ensure you also remain in contact with your buyers to manage expectations.
Check your supply chain: For those relying on imported goods for manufacturing and other industries, contact your suppliers to identify any potential disruptions to your supply chain.
Stay informed: Keep up to date with the latest information using Austrade’s Go Global Toolkit. More updates are due next week on logistics, insurance, and export finance.
To discuss your current situation and explore diversification of your supply chains and export markets, reach out to our International Trade team on 1300 731 988 or via email.
