Behind the Scenes: Secrets of the Deal to Pass the Saudi Oil Pipeline Through Al-Mahra
NYN | Reports and Analyses
In recent hours, Yemeni activists have reignited discussion over an old Saudi offer made to Sheikh Ali Salem Al-Huraizi, one of the most prominent tribal and political leaders in Al-Mahra Governorate, as part of renewed debate surrounding the Saudi oil pipeline project that Riyadh seeks to run through Yemeni territory to the Arabian Sea.
According to activists on social media, Saudi authorities had several years ago offered 40 million Saudi riyals to Sheikh Al-Huraizi in exchange for his approval of the pipeline’s passage through Al-Mahra lands.
However, Al-Huraizi—well known for his firm opposition to the Saudi military presence in the governorate—flatly rejected the offer, responding with a symbolic counterproposal: 80 million riyals in exchange for a complete Saudi military withdrawal from Al-Mahra.
“A Timely Return Amid Energy Market Shifts”
The renewed attention to this story comes at a notable moment, as the global energy market undergoes major strategic transformations amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify oil export routesto reduce dependence on traditional maritime corridors.
The proposed pipeline through Al-Mahra represents a strategic option that would give Saudi Arabia direct access to the Arabian Sea, enhancing its ability to maneuver amid geopolitical volatility.
Analysts believe Saudi Arabia’s renewed interest in the project reflects post-pandemic shifts and the global push toward clean energy, prompting oil-producing nations to expand logistical options and fortify infrastructure resilience.
“Al-Huraizi: Sovereignty Is Not for Sale”
Sheikh Ali Salem Al-Huraizi, who leads the Peaceful Sit-in Committee in Al-Mahra, has repeatedly emphasized that his opposition is principled, not financial.
In previous statements, he asserted that allowing the pipeline to pass without popular and official consent would constitute a violation of national sovereignty, warning that the project could destabilize Al-Mahra, which has so far remained relatively calm compared to other conflict-ridden regions of Yemen.
“Al-Mahra: A Strategic Location and a Renewed Struggle for Influence”
Al-Mahra enjoys a highly strategic location in Yemen’s far east, overlooking the Arabian Sea and bordering the Sultanate of Oman.
This geography has drawn increasing regional interest in recent years, with Saudi and Emirati forces deployed in several areas under security-related justifications—viewed by locals, however, as attempts to control the governorate’s vital trade routes and passages.
“Widespread Reaction and Popular Support”
The revival of discussion around the Saudi offer sparked broad engagement on social media, where Yemeni activists voiced support for Al-Huraizi’s stance, describing his rejection as a symbol of national resistance to any form of foreign domination or interference.
Others called for strengthening the peaceful movement in Al-Mahra and reaffirmed that no energy or economic projects should be imposed without genuine Yemeni political and popular consensus.
