The UAE has defended its departure from OPEC as a sovereign economic decision rooted in national interest and long-term energy strategy, firmly rejecting suggestions of political motivations or divisions with fellow members.
The United Arab Emirates has insisted its landmark decision to exit OPEC after nearly six decades was driven purely by economic strategy, not politics.
Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei made the clarification Saturday, saying: “This decision came following a comprehensive assessment of the national production policy and its future capabilities, and it is based solely on the national interest of the United Arab Emirates, its responsibility as a reliable energy supplier, and its unwavering commitment to maintaining market stability.”
The UAE, a member since 1967 — predating the nation’s founding — announced its departure earlier this month. Mazrouei was emphatic: “This decision is not based on any political considerations, nor does it reflect the existence of any divisions between the United Arab Emirates and its partners.”
Abu Dhabi is simultaneously accelerating construction of a new West-East pipeline to double ADNOC’s export capacity by 2027, bypassing the Strait of Hormuz.
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