Gulf solar imports plunge up to 90% as Iran war disrupts supply chains
Solar panel imports across the Gulf have fallen sharply since the US-Iran war began in February, with the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman all recording drops of more than 80% as shipping disruptions, higher freight and insurance costs and rising equipment prices hit supply chains, according to energy research groups.
The UAE averaged imports of around 100 megawatts of solar capacity per month between March and June — down nearly 90% from a monthly average of 785MW throughout 2025. Saudi Arabia cut imports by 81% over the same period to 139MW, while Oman's fell 89% and Iraq's by 68%.
Experts believe the slump could push solar projects back by three to 12 months, though it expects a rebound once trade stabilises. This is because many feel the overall effect is a short-term delay followed by a sharper medium-term acceleration in Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Oman.
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Muhammad Ali Bandial