UAE to leave OPEC
Published by Callum O'Reilly,
Senior Editor
Hydrocarbon Engineering,
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its decision to exit the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC and OPEC+), effective 1 May 2026.
In a statement released via its state-run WAM news agency, the UAE said that the decision reflects its long-term strategic and economic vision and evolving energy profile, including accelerated investment in domestic energy production, and reinforces its commitment to a responsible, reliable, and forward-looking role in global energy markets.
This decision follows a comprehensive review of the UAE’s production policy and its current and future capacity, and is based on its national interest and its commitment to contributing effectively to meeting the market’s pressing needs.
The statement continued: “This decision follows decades of constructive cooperation. The UAE joined OPEC in 1967 through the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and continued its membership following the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. Throughout this period, the UAE has played an active role in supporting global oil market stability and strengthening dialogue among producing nations.
The decision reflects a policy-driven evolution in the UAE’s approach, enhancing flexibility to respond to market dynamics while continuing to contribute to stability in a measured and responsible manner.”
Following its exit, the UAE has pledged to act responsibly, bringing additional production to market in a gradual and measured manner, aligned with demand and market conditions.
The UAE said that it will continue working with partners to develop resources, supporting economic growth and diversification.
“This decision does not alter the UAE’s commitment to global market stability or its approach based on cooperation with producers and consumers. Rather, it enhances the UAE’s ability to respond to evolving market needs”, continued the statement.
“We reaffirm our appreciation for the efforts of both OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance and wish them success. During our time in the organisation, 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 and our commitment to our investors, customers, partners and global energy markets. This is what we will focus on going forward.”
The UAE reaffirmed that its production policies will be guided by responsibility and market stability, taking into account global supply and demand.
It will continue investing across the energy value chain, including oil, gas, renewables, and low-carbon solutions, to support resilience and long-term energy system transformation.
Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/refining/28042026/uae-to-leave-opec/
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