UAE says OPEC, OPEC+ exit was sovereign strategic decision

The UAE's decision to exit the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC and OPEC+) was a "sovereign strategic choice" and not "driven by political considerations", Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure, said on Saturday.

In a post on social media platform X, the minister added that the decision is "rooted in its long-term economic vision, evolving energy capabilities, and enduring commitment to global energy security".

The move, he added, was made following "a comprehensive assessment of national production policy and future capacity and is guided exclusively by the UAE’s national interest, its responsibility as a reliable energy supplier, and its steadfast commitment to market stability".

He clarified that "it is not driven by political considerations, nor does it reflect any division between the UAE and its partners".

"The UAE’s decisions are sovereign, strategic, and guided by national interest, not external speculation," Al Mazrouei added.

The UAE’s decision to exit OPEC and OPEC+ is a sovereign strategic choice rooted in its long-term economic vision, evolving energy capabilities, and enduring commitment to global energy security.
This decision follows a comprehensive assessment of national production policy and…

— سهيل المزروعي (@HESuhail) May 16, 2026

It was on April 28 that the UAE announced its decision to exit OPEC and OPEC+ from May 1. 

The UAE joined OPEC in 1967 through the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and continued its membership following the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. Throughout this period, the UAE has played an active role in supporting global oil market stability and strengthening dialogue among producing nations, with this decision following decades of constructive cooperation.