Two Adnoc-linked LNG tankers head toward Hormuz as tracking gaps cloud other vessel movements

Two more ballast Adnoc-linked LNG tankers, Umm Al Ashtan and Marigold, are heading toward the Strait of Hormuz from the Arabian Sea off Oman's northeastern coast, pointing to potential additional transits through the chokepoint, although tracking gaps may occur near Fujairah and Khor Fakkan anchorage, obscuring confirmation of any transit.

According to Kpler data, Umm Al Ashtan left its waiting position offshore Sri Lanka around Apr. 12, while Marigold followed on Apr. 18, both heading in the direction of the strait. Marigold slowed to near-stationary from Apr. 23 before accelerating to 14.5 knots yesterday, according to Kpler data, while Umm Al Ashtan increased its speed to 15 knots on Apr. 27 from 12 knots a day earlier, suggesting both vessels may be preparing to transit.

The possible transits into the Mideast Gulf come as two other Adnoc-linked vessels, Mraweh and Al Hamra sailing in ballast, are thought to have transited the strait, after going without AIS signal since 11 days ago. Kpler data analysts inferred the transit from their last known positions at and near Khor Fakkan anchorage, the closest point in the Gulf of Oman to the strait entrance, although this could not be verified by satellite data. Kpler understands Adnoc may have  instructed the crews of both vessels to switch off their transponders. Adnoc has not responded to a request for confirmation.

Save a few recent transits, LNG tanker movements through the Strait of Hormuz have been virtually halted since late February amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, effectively blocking outbound flows from Qatar and Abu Dhabi, which together accounted for roughly 20% of global LNG supply in 2025. The Oman-linked Sohar LNG became the first vessel to cross the strait since the conflict erupted, transiting in ballast on Apr. 2, followed by the laden Adnoc-operated Mubaraz.

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