Saudi Arabia has resumed sending oil tankers directly through the Strait of Hormuz after a three-week pause. Crude loadings at its Ras Tanura and Juaymah terminals have recommenced, with several Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs) already loaded. The kingdom is also exploring ship-to-ship transfers off the coast of Oman, indicating a shift back towards using the Strait. These barrels are likely sourced from within the Persian Gulf and are being offered to Chinese refiners. Middle Eastern producers are continuing to move large volumes of crude, helping to stabilize oil prices. Saudi Arabia’s ability to divert exports to its Red Sea port of Yanbu had previously reduced reliance on the Strait. However, this alternative route now faces threats from Houthi militants imposing a maritime blockade. Recent activity shows a significant pickup in cargo loadings from Saudi facilities within the Persian Gulf. A large fleet of Saudi-controlled oil supertankers has also gathered off the UAE and Oman, suggesting potential future use for Hormuz transits. This marks a change of strategy following attacks on Saudi tankers during increased U.S.-Iran tensions. Despite the resumption of Strait traffic, Saudi exports are not fully back to normal. Ship-to-ship transfers continue to be offered, allowing buyers to avoid direct passage through Hormuz. The Red Sea diversion route has also become less viable due to higher costs and reduced capacity.