Brief

Macron secures 200,000 tonnes of diesel per month from UAE and Bahrain

The deals add to existing Saudi supplies, covering just over 10% of France's diesel consumption.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 20 Oct 2026 19:00:14 GMT

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Tuesday that France will receive an extra 200,000 tonnes of diesel each month from the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, the Élysée Palace said. The UAE will provide about 100,000 tonnes per month, with a further 100,000 tonnes to be secured during a stop in Bahrain later that day. Including existing Saudi deliveries, the total now reaches 295,000 tonnes monthly, just over 10% of France's diesel use.

Macron is on a three‑day Gulf tour aimed at securing oil and diesel supplies and easing fuel prices after weekend protests sparked by soaring living costs. The presidency also noted commitments from Kuwait to ship diesel and kerosene to French overseas territories via Oman, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. Talks are ongoing to lower maritime insurance costs to facilitate larger shipments through the strait.

Key facts

France will receive an additional 200,000 tonnes of diesel per month from the UAE and Bahrain. (france24.com)
Combined with Saudi deliveries, France's diesel imports will total 295,000 tonnes per month, about 10% of its consumption. (france24.com)
Macron's Gulf tour aims to secure energy supplies and reduce fuel prices amid unrest in France. (france24.com)