The United Arab Emirates has declared it will exit the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries in a major shake-up in the global energy landscape and a blow to the powerful oil-producing bloc.
In official announcements and several sources, the UAE indicated its exit will take effect from May 1, 2026, ending nearly six decades of participation in the oil cartel.
It is a sign of the country’s ambition for a more flexible and autonomous energy strategy, notably to boost oil output without being tied to OPEC quotas.
The UAE officials claimed the move was in the national interest and long-term economic vision to boost domestic energy production and react to changing global demand.
The move might reduce the power OPEC has to influence global oil supply and pricing because the UAE is one of the group’s biggest producers, analysts say.
The action comes amid growing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, including the suspension of oil exports via the Strait of Hormuz during the ongoing Iran-linked war.
Experts also point to deeper differences within the alliance, such on output limits, as a factor in the UAE’s withdrawal.
The move is not likely to have an immediate impact on global oil markets, but it could signify a longer-term shift in how the major oil producers coordinate output and regulate supply.
The UAE, a member of OPEC since 1967, said it will continue to be a responsible provider in global energy markets despite exiting the club.
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