Starting in January, shrimp boat owners on the Alabama coast will receive vouchers for free diesel fuel, about $1.2 million worth in all, paid for through the world's largest oil producer, the Saudi Arabian Oil Co.

"I know, Saudi Arabia. It seems kind of strange. But they've been very kind and gracious to us," said Ernie Anderson, president of the Organized Seafood Association of Alabama, which will administer the Saudi gift. "We all hope this will kick-start the economy down here."

Through their government-owned oil conglomerate, the Saudis have quietly donated "tens of millions" of dollars worth of goods to victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas, said Rob Arndt, spokesman for Saudi Aramco.