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The United Arab Emirates said Tuesday it is pulling out of OPEC and OPEC+, a move that could reshape production strategy as global oil markets face supply constraints and rising demand expectations. The departure would free the UAE from group production quotas, giving it greater flexibility to increase output and expand its role across crude, petrochemicals and natural gas markets.
UAE Energy Minister Suhail al-Mazrouei told Reuters the decision followed a “careful look” at national energy strategy and was a “sovereign national decision” grounded in long-term economic priorities. He said operating outside the group will allow the UAE to better meet future global demand.
“Being a country with no obligation under the group will give us flexibility,” al-Mazrouei said, adding the move comes as global consumers require stable supply and strategic reserves are being drawn down.
The UAE did not directly consult with other producers, including Saudi Arabia, before making the decision. The minister also said the move can be made without significantly disrupting markets given existing supply constraints.
The UAE’s exit will be effective May 1.
The exit raises questions about coordination among OPEC+ producers, which have historically relied on production limits to manage global supply and influence prices. The UAE has been a longtime member of the group.
The timing also reflects ongoing constraints on global oil flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint between Iran and Oman that typically carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
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