Abu Dhabi (TDI): The United Arab Emirates has described its decision to leave OPEC and OPEC+ as a sovereign and strategic policy move, rejecting suggestions that it was driven by political disagreements within the oil alliance.
In a post on X on Saturday, UAE Minister of Energy and Infrastructure Suhail Al Mazrouei said the decision was based on a broader assessment of the country’s production strategy and long-term energy goals.
He stressed that the move should not be interpreted as reflecting any internal rift with other members of the group, adding that it was “not driven by political considerations” and did not signal division with partner countries.
The announcement comes after the UAE confirmed at the end of April that it would exit OPEC and the wider OPEC+ grouping from May 1, a decision that has drawn attention across global energy markets.
Analysts say the withdrawal marks a significant shift for one of the largest oil producers in the alliance and could reduce OPEC’s influence over global supply management, particularly at a time of heightened instability in energy markets linked to wider regional tensions.
Read More: UAE Says OPEC Exit Driven by National Interest
The move is also seen as potentially widening strategic differences between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, traditionally the leading force within OPEC.
By stepping away from the group, the UAE is expected to gain greater flexibility in setting its own production levels and energy policy, while also reshaping its long-term positioning in global oil markets.
Energy observers note that the decision could gradually increase pressure on the remaining members of OPEC+ as they manage supply coordination without one of the bloc’s key producers.
Read More: UAE’s OPEC Exit Takes Effect. Will It Bring More Energy Autonomy for the Country?
Despite the significance of the move, Emirati officials have emphasized that relations with partner countries remain strong and that cooperation in the energy sector will continue in other forms.
