Natural gas: A vital bridge for the Middle East’s energy future
With responsible development and rigorous regulation, gas can help the region move forward not just as an energy exporter, but as a global leader in the energy transition
The Middle East has long been at the heart of the global energy story. For decades, the region's oil exports have powered the global economy and fuelled national development. But as the world moves toward decarbonisation, and as regional economies seek to diversify and future-proof themselves, energy strategies are evolving. In this new era, natural gas has emerged as a vital bridge that offers a pragmatic balance between economic development, energy security and environmental responsibility. While natural gas is not a permanent solution to climate change, it is a crucial part of the transition. It complements the region's broader goals, such as Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, the UAE’s Net Zero
Also in this section
5 March 2026
Gas is a central pillar of Colombia’s energy system, but declining production poses a significant challenge, and LNG will be increasingly needed as a stopgap. A recent major offshore gas discovery offers hope, but policy improvements are also required, Camilo Morales, secretary general of Naturgas, the Colombian gas association, tells Petroleum Economist
4 March 2026
The continent’s inventories were already depleted before conflict erupted in the Middle East, causing prices to spike ahead of the crucial summer refilling season
4 March 2026
The US president has repeatedly promised to lower gasoline prices, but this ambition conflicts with his parallel aim to increase drilling and could be upended by his war against Iran
4 March 2026
With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed following US-Israel strikes and Iran’s retaliatory escalation, Fujairah has become the region’s critical pressure release valve—and is now under serious threat






