UAE Withdraws from OPEC
Photo: Reuters
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its decision to withdraw from OPEC and OPEC+ with effect from May 1, citing a shift toward ‘national interests’ and a long-term review of its energy strategy.
A statement carried by state media said the move reflects ‘the UAE’s long-term strategic and economic vision and evolving energy profile’.
It added, “During our time in the organization, we made significant contributions and even greater sacrifices for the benefit of all. However, the time has come to focus our efforts on what our national interest dictates.”
The decision comes amid heightened regional tensions following the US-Israel conflict with Iran, which has disrupted energy flows and added pressure on global oil markets. Gulf exporters have already faced challenges shipping crude through the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global energy trade.
UAE Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed al-Mazrouei said the decision followed a ‘careful look’ at the country’s current and future production strategy. He said Abu Dhabi did not consult other countries, including Saudi Arabia, before finalizing the move.
The withdrawal marks a significant shift for OPEC+, which has struggled to maintain unity amid internal differences over production quotas and geopolitical priorities. The UAE has long been one of the bloc’s major producers, with capacity of nearly 4.8 million barrels per day.
Energy analysts say the exit could weaken the group’s influence, leaving Saudi Arabia to shoulder a larger role in stabilizing oil prices as global demand dynamics shift and competition among producers intensifies.
