State media reported that the United Arab Emirates has announced its withdrawal from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the expanded OPEC+ agreement, effective May 1, 2026.
The decision is presented as being entirely consistent with the UAE’s long-term strategic and economic vision, as well as the ongoing development of its national energy sector. According to sources, the primary goals of this move are to accelerate investments in domestic energy production and solidify the nation’s role as a reliable and responsible global producer.
During a statement, the UAE’s Energy Minister, Suhail Al Mazroui, emphasized the current global context, noting that the withdrawal occurs at a time when consumers require significant attention due to strategic crude oil reserves having declined to an “alarming level”. He stated that after a thorough review of the country’s production policies and its current and projected capacities, the UAE concluded that its national interests, coupled with its commitment to ensuring an effective supply to the market, necessitated this measure.
