Since the U.S.–Israel war with Iran disrupted oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, Gulf producers, including the UAE, have faced major logistical challenges in exporting oil.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday announced it is leaving the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the wider OPEC+ alliance, effective May 1. The move strips the oil cartel of one of its largest and most reliable producers, dealing a significant blow to group cohesion at a time when the ongoing U.S.-Israel war on Iran has triggered an energy shock and severely disrupted global oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical choke point.
In a statement carried by state news agency WAM, the UAE described the decision as reflecting its “long-term strategic and economic vision and evolving energy profile”. It cited the need for greater flexibility to invest in domestic energy production and respond independently to market conditions amid “near-term volatility”.
Published – April 30, 2026 12:47 am IST
