United Arab Emirates has announced that it will leave OPEC and OPEC+ from 1 May 2026

United Arab Emirates has announced that it will leave OPEC and OPEC+ from 1 May 2026

¨     United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that it will leave OPEC and OPEC+ from 1 May 2026.

¨  The decision comes amid global oil market instability caused by the US–Israel war on Iran and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

¨     The UAE is one of the major global oil producers, so its exit is expected to significantly impact global energy politics and oil prices.

¨     UAE Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed al-Mazrouei stated that the decision is based on the country’s long-term strategic and economic interests.

¨     The UAE wants greater flexibility in oil production and alignment with its growing production capacity.

¨     Under OPEC’s quota-based system, production limits were seen as restrictive for the UAE’s expansion plans.

¨     The UAE has a production capacity of around 4.8 million barrels per day.

Impact on OPEC and OPEC+

¨     Weakening of the group’s ability to control oil supply

¨     Reduced influence on global oil price stability

¨     Increased burden on Saudi Arabia to maintain market balance

¨     Possible decline in OPEC’s global dominance Analysts believe the move could further reduce OPEC’s influence as the United States increases oil production outside the cartel framework.