OAPEC Announces UAE’s Withdrawal

The Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC) announced the United Arab Emirates’ withdrawal from the body, just days after Abu Dhabi exited from OPEC and the OPEC+.

In a statement on X, OAPEC said, “The General Secretariat of OAPEC has been informed of a letter from Suhail Mohammed Al Mazrouei, Minister of Energy and Infrastructure of the United Arab Emirates, addressed to Dr. Khalifa Rajab Abdul Sadiq, Minister of Oil and Gas of Libya and Chairman of the Current Session of the Organization’s Council of Ministers, containing the decision of the United Arab Emirates to withdraw from membership in the Organization, effective from 1 May 2026.”

The OAPEC General Secretariat appreciated the UAE for its role throughout its period of membership, and its contributions to the joint Arab action in the petroleum and energy sector.

Meanwhile, UAE ADNOC CEO Sultan al Jaber said on Monday the country’s decision to reposition itself within the global energy landscape and exit OPEC and OPEC+ was not directed against anyone.

The move serves UAE’s national interests and long-term strategic objectives, Al Jaber said, giving it greater ability to accelerate investment, expand and create value, while remaining remain a trusted and responsible partner in global energy markets.

Speaking on the Strait of Hormuz, he noted security of vital trade routes is not a regional matter alone, but shared global responsibility. (AFP)