The United Arab Emirates has announced a significant shift in its energy policy, confirming its decision to withdraw from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) after more than five decades of membership.
The move, set to take effect on May 1, comes as the oil alliance prepares for a key meeting in Vienna and also includes the UAE’s exit from the broader OPEC+ group. Officials said the decision reflects long-term strategic priorities and evolving global energy dynamics.
UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, Suhail Al Mazrouei, described the move as a “policy-driven evolution” aligned with long-term global market fundamentals.
He expressed gratitude to OPEC and its member states for decades of cooperation, adding that the UAE remains committed to ensuring energy security and providing reliable, responsible, lower-carbon energy supplies while supporting stable global markets.
An energy sector source described the timing as “right,” arguing that the decision could benefit consumers and global markets by improving supply availability amid tight spare capacity following recent disruptions in the Gulf region and the Strait of Hormuz.
The UAE state news agency WAM reported that the withdrawal follows a comprehensive review of the country’s production policy and future capacity plans, based on national interest.
