The UAE is set to leave the oil producers’ group OPEC after almost 60 years as a member, according to a report by BBC News.
Abu Dhabi said the decision aligns with its long-term economic strategy and reflects changes in its energy portfolio, as it seeks greater autonomy over production policy.
The UAE’s energy minister indicated that exiting the group would remove quota obligations, allowing the country more flexibility in responding to market conditions.
Analysts have warned the departure could weaken OPEC’s cohesion, with one describing the move as a potential inflection point for the alliance. The UAE has historically been among the more compliant producers within the group, and its exit may increase the burden on Saudi Arabia to manage output discipline.
OPEC, founded in 1960 to coordinate oil production and stabilise markets, will see its membership reduced following the UAE’s withdrawal.
The development raises the prospect of further shifts within the producer bloc as global energy dynamics continue to evolve.
