The United Arab Emirates has clarified that its decision to exit the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and the broader OPEC+ alliance is rooted in national priorities rather than geopolitical tensions.
Speaking at the ‘Make It In The Emirates’ conference in Abu Dhabi, Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, stated that the move was a sovereign decision aimed at strengthening the UAE’s economic and industrial future. He emphasised that the exit was “not directed against anyone,” despite speculation of growing tensions with Saudi Arabia.
The UAE, previously OPEC’s fourth-largest oil producer, formally withdrew last week following months of disagreements with Saudi Arabia over oil production quotas, foreign policy, and regional developments, including the Middle East conflict. Analysts believe the move could weaken OPEC’s influence over global oil prices and further strain ties between the two Gulf nations.
Al Jaber noted that the decision aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision to integrate energy, technology, and industry, enabling greater flexibility in investment and production. The country has long expressed dissatisfaction with OPEC-imposed production limits, which capped its output at around 3.4 million barrels per day.
Abu Dhabi now aims to boost production capacity to five million barrels per day by 2027. In line with this strategy, ADNOC has announced plans to invest $55 billion in new energy projects over the next two years.
Officials say increased oil revenues will support the UAE’s broader economic diversification agenda, including investments in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, positioning the country for sustained long-term growth.
By AFP
