The United Arab Emirates has announced its decision to exit the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC and OPEC+), effective 1 May 2026. This decision reflects the UAE’s long-term strategic and economic vision and evolving energy profile, including accelerated investment in domestic energy production, and reinforces its commitment to a responsible, reliable, and forward-looking role in global energy markets. The UAE joined OPEC in 1967 through Abu Dhabi and remained a key member following the formation of the federation in 1971.
In a statement carried by state media, the UAE said the decision “reflects the UAE’s long-term strategic and economic vision and evolving energy profile, including higher investment in domestic energy production.”
Energy Minister Suhail Al Mazrouei described the exit as a policy-driven evolution aligned with long-term market fundamentals. The UAE expressed appreciation for OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance, saying it had made significant contributions during its tenure but that the time had come to focus on national interest and on its commitments to investors, customers, partners, and global energy markets.
For the UAE economy, the exit reinforces a long-running strategic pattern: the use of energy policy to underwrite a diversified, investment-led economic model. Real estate, infrastructure, tourism, and financial services have become the visible pillars of that diversification, with sustained investment driving development activity across both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
The OPEC exit takes effect on May 1, 2026.
