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UAE quits OPEC and OPEC+ in blow to global oil producers' group
The United Arab Emirates announced on April 28, 2026 that it would leave OPEC and OPEC+, a move described as a major setback for the group and its de facto leader Saudi Arabia amid a broader energy shock from the Iran war. The UAE had criticized Arab states for not adequately protecting it from Iranian attacks during the conflict, while Gulf shipping through the Hormuz Strait remains under strain.
Why It Matters
The UAE's departure could weaken OPEC's unity and shift regional oil-market dynamics, potentially influencing global prices and geopolitics during an ongoing energy crisis.
Timeline
2 Events
UAE exits OPEC and OPEC+
April 28, 2026
The United Arab Emirates announced on Tuesday it is quitting OPEC and OPEC+, delivering a heavy blow to the oil-exporting groups and their de facto leader, Saudi Arabia, as the world faces a historic energy shock tied to the Iran war. The UAE’s exit could create disarray and weaken the group, which has usually aimed for a united front despite internal disagreements over issues ranging from geopolitics to production quotas. The article notes Gulf producers have struggled to ship exports through the Strait of Hormuz due to Iranian threats and attacks, compounding regional tensions.
Gargash criticizes Gulf bloc at Gulf Influencers Forum
April 27, 2026
Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser for the UAE president, criticized fellow Arab states for their response to Iranian attacks during the war at the Gulf Influencers Forum. He said: "The Gulf Cooperation Council countries supported each other logistically, but politically and militarily, I think their position has been the weakest historically." He added that he did not expect the Gulf Cooperation Council to exhibit such weakness and was not surprised by the Arab League’s stance, while expressing surprise at the GCC’s position.