UAE's Exit from OPEC: Affirmation of Commitment to Stabilising the Oil Market

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - The United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) decision to leave the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) effective 1 May 2026 is one of the most significant developments in the global energy market this year.

This step is seen as a major blow to the oil cartel, which for decades has coordinated production among the world’s major producers, particularly in the Middle East.

However, amid this historic decision, the UAE has reaffirmed that its commitment to global oil market stability remains unchanged.

The decision to exit OPEC was announced following the UAE’s exposure to increasing geopolitical pressures, including weeks of missile and drone attacks from Iran, a fellow OPEC member.

These tensions were further exacerbated by shipping disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which have limited the UAE’s oil export capabilities, long the foundation of the country’s economy.

The UAE’s Ministry of Energy stated that the decision to leave OPEC was taken after a comprehensive review of its policies and production capacities.

UAE Energy Minister Suhail Al Mazrouei emphasised that the decision considered minimal impacts on the market and other producing countries.

“Our departure at this time is opportune, as it will have minimal impact on prices and minimal impact on our friends in OPEC and OPEC+,” Al Mazrouei told CNBC, as quoted on Wednesday (29/4/2026).

This statement underscores the UAE’s efforts to ensure that its transition out of OPEC does not trigger oil price volatility or disrupt the global production balance maintained through OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance.

In its written statement, the ministry affirmed that the UAE’s exit from OPEC actually provides greater flexibility to respond to energy market dynamics.

“We reaffirm our appreciation for the efforts of OPEC and the OPEC+ alliance and wish them success,” the UAE Ministry of Energy stated.

This stance serves as an important emphasis that Abu Dhabi does not position the exit as a severance of ties with other oil producers.