Adedokun Waliyu 
The United Arab Emirates has said its decision to exit OPEC was not aimed at any country but driven by its own national interests and long-term economic strategy.
This clarification was made by Sultan Al Jaber, who stated that the move is part of a broader effort to reposition the UAE within the global energy landscape and strengthen its economy.
According to him, the decision—already in effect—focuses on boosting national priorities, expanding investments, and aligning the country’s energy sector with its industrial and technological ambitions.
The UAE’s withdrawal follows months of tension with Saudi Arabia, particularly over oil production quotas, foreign policy differences, and the impact of the Middle East conflict on Gulf economies.
Although the exit has raised concerns about its impact on OPEC’s ability to regulate oil prices, Al Jaber insisted that the move was not directed against any nation but aimed at enhancing the UAE’s flexibility and growth potential.
The UAE, previously OPEC’s fourth-largest producer, had long expressed dissatisfaction with production limits, which capped its output at about 3.4 million barrels per day. The country now aims to increase capacity to five million barrels per day by 2027.
As part of its expansion strategy, the state oil company, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, has pledged to invest $55 billion in new projects over the next two years.
Officials say increased oil revenue will support investments in sectors such as artificial intelligence and advanced technology, helping to diversify the economy and build long-term resilience.
