from oil to lng: a legal roadmap aligning maritime decarbonization in the persian gulf

Persian gulf states are increasingly required to decarbonize maritime operations while preserving their energy-export-based economies, yet the region lacks a coordinated legal approach to emissions reduction. this paper examines how liquefied natural gas (lng) can serve as a transitional compliance mechanism by enabling lower-emission operations through infrastructure that already exists at scale. using doctrinal and comparative legal analysis, the study evaluates how monitoring and reporting obligations, port-entry enforcement, and fuel-quality standards can be adapted to regional conditions. a phased legal and policy roadmap is proposed for 2025–2040, including the harmonization of mrv requirements, expansion of lng bunkering capacity, and adoption of port-entry compliance measures supported by differentiated port fees. the approach further accounts for the future integration of carbon-capture systems and hydrogen or ammonia-ready infrastructure to avoid technological lock-in. evidence from port development plans and governance initiatives in major gulf ports demonstrates that these measures are technically feasible and institutionally implementable. the findings highlight that inclusive regional coordination is essential to avoid carbon leakage and create a credible foundation for a long-term transition toward zero-emission marine fuels.