UAE Withdraws from OPEC+ Effective May 2026

The United Arab Emirates' decision to withdraw from OPEC and OPEC+ effective May 1, 2026, was a sovereign and strategic choice based on a comprehensive assessment of its national production policy and future energy capabilities, according to UAE Energy Minister Suhail Al Mazrouei. The minister emphasized in a statement posted on social media on May 16, 2026, that the move was not driven by political considerations and did not reflect any divisions between the UAE and its international partners, clarifying that such decisions are made in line with the country's national interests independently from speculation or misleading narratives. Al Mazrouei stated that the withdrawal reflects the UAE's commitment to maintaining stability in international energy markets amid evolving global economic and geopolitical conditions. The decision was described as part of the UAE's strategic direction in the energy sector, highlighting the country's evolving production capabilities and long-term development priorities. The minister stressed that the UAE will continue playing its role as a reliable global energy supplier. The announcement comes amid heightened global attention on oil markets as an unprecedented energy crisis caused by the Iran war exposes discord among Gulf nations. According to reports, OPEC production has fallen nearly 34 percent since the conflict began, while the UAE recorded a decline of more than 40 percent in its output compared to pre-war levels. The exit of the UAE, one of OPEC's biggest producers, weakens the organization's control over global oil supplies and widens a rift between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which effectively leads the producers' group. Energy-exporting nations continue reassessing production strategies, investment plans and market positioning in response to shifting international demand and energy transition policies.