Abu dhabi: The United Arab Emirates today announced its decision to exit the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the OPEC+ alliance, effective 1 May 2026.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the decision aligns with the UAE's long-term strategic and economic vision and the evolution of its energy sector, including accelerated investment in domestic production. This move is aimed at reinforcing its role as a responsible and reliable producer with a forward-looking approach to global energy markets.
The agency added that the decision follows a comprehensive review of the UAE's production policies and its current and future capacities, in line with national interests and its commitment to contributing effectively to meeting growing global demand. There are trends indicating continued growth in energy demand over the medium and long term, and the UAE affirmed that the stability of the global energy system depends on the availability of flexible, reliable, and affordable supply.
The UAE stressed that the decision reflects the evolution of its energy policies, enhancing flexibility in responding to market dynamics, while continuing its responsible role as a producer of some of the world's most competitive and lower-carbon oil. It noted that production will continue to increase gradually and in a measured manner in line with supply and demand conditions.
The UAE also expressed its appreciation for the efforts of OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance, affirming its pride in more than five decades of constructive cooperation since joining the organisation in 1967. It stressed that this new direction will not alter its firm commitment to global market stability or its approach based on cooperation with all producers and consumers.