The United Arab Emirates has announced its withdrawal from OPEC and the wider OPEC+ alliance, a move that immediately sends shockwaves through global energy markets already strained by escalating tensions linked to the Iran conflict.
The decision marks a major turning point for the oil-producing bloc and is seen as a setback for Saudi Arabia’s long-standing influence within the group, which has traditionally relied on unity to manage production levels and stabilise prices.
UAE Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed al-Mazrouei confirmed the exit, saying it followed a strategic reassessment of the country’s long-term energy priorities.
“This is a policy decision taken after careful consideration of current and future production strategies,” he told Reuters.
He added that the UAE did not consult other member states before making the move, underscoring the independence of the decision.
The announcement comes at a time of heightened instability in the Gulf region, with ongoing conflict involving Iran disrupting shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway, through which a significant portion of global oil and gas passes, has become increasingly volatile amid threats and reported attacks on vessels.
While the UAE downplayed fears of immediate supply disruption, analysts say the timing could deepen uncertainty in already fragile energy markets.
The development is also being viewed through a geopolitical lens, with some observers suggesting it could align with long-standing criticism of OPEC from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly accused the group of keeping oil prices artificially high.
Within the region, tensions have also been rising over the handling of the Iran crisis. Senior UAE officials have previously expressed dissatisfaction with what they describe as a lack of coordinated political and military support from fellow Gulf and Arab states.
Anwar Gargash, diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, recently voiced frustration over the regional response, saying Gulf cooperation has been uneven.
“Politically and militarily, the stance has been weaker than expected,” he said at a recent forum, adding that he was surprised by the level of limited coordination within the Gulf Cooperation Council.
The UAE’s exit is expected to reshape discussions around oil production strategy, pricing influence, and regional alignment at a time when global energy security remains under intense pressure.
