DUBAI : The United Arab Emirates said on Tuesday it would withdraw from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the wider OPEC+ alliance from May 1, marking one of the most significant shifts in global oil policy in recent years and dealing a major blow to the producers’ bloc led by Saudi Arabia.

The decision comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions across the Gulf, with the ongoing Iran conflict and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz rattling global energy markets, tightening export routes and pushing crude prices higher amid growing concerns over supply security.

In a statement carried by state news agency WAM, the UAE said the move followed a comprehensive review of its oil production policy, current capacity and future output plans.

“The decision is based on our national interest and our commitment to contributing effectively to meeting the market’s pressing needs,” the statement said.

Abu Dhabi said leaving the alliance would provide greater flexibility in managing production and responding to changing market conditions, while reaffirming its commitment to remaining a reliable and responsible global energy supplier.

The UAE, one of OPEC’s longest-serving members, has played a central role in shaping production strategies and output agreements within both OPEC and OPEC+. Its departure is expected to test the cohesion of the alliance, which has often managed internal tensions over quotas, pricing strategies and regional political differences.

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