The United Arab Emirates has announced plans to withdraw from both OPEC and OPEC+, marking a significant shift in global energy dynamics amid rising tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement released Tuesday and carried by the state news agency, authorities said the decision reflects the country’s intention to prioritise its “national interests” and adapt to its evolving energy strategy. The exit is expected to take effect on Friday, ending the UAE’s long-standing participation in the oil-producing blocs.
The Gulf nation, one of the world’s leading crude exporters, has at times expressed reservations about production quotas imposed by OPEC, which are designed to regulate global oil supply. Officials indicated that while the UAE had made notable contributions and sacrifices during its membership, it now intends to pursue policies better aligned with its long-term economic and strategic goals.
Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed al-Mazrouei said the decision followed a comprehensive review of current and future production policies, stressing that it was made independently without formal consultations with other member states.
The announcement comes against the backdrop of escalating regional instability, particularly the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, a critical chokepoint through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply typically passes. The disruption has intensified pressure on global energy markets and complicated export logistics for Gulf producers, including the UAE.
Tensions have also surfaced between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, a dominant force within OPEC and the world’s largest oil exporter. Analysts say differing views on production levels and regional security may have contributed to the UAE’s decision to chart a more independent course.
The move follows criticism from senior Emirati officials over what they described as insufficient support from fellow Arab nations in responding to repeated attacks attributed to Iran during the ongoing conflict. Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, publicly questioned the regional response during remarks at a policy forum earlier in the week.
The UAE’s departure from OPEC and OPEC+ is expected to have far-reaching implications for oil markets, potentially affecting production coordination efforts and adding further uncertainty at a time of heightened geopolitical risk and volatile energy prices.
