The United Arab Emirates (UAE) said on Tuesday that it will withdraw from the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the wider OPEC+ alliance, with effect from May 1, 2026.

The decision reflects the UAE’s long-term strategic and economic vision of an evolving energy profile, including accelerated investment in domestic energy production, according to a Dubai local media report.

It follows a comprehensive review of the UAE’s production policy and its current and future capacity, the report said. “This would be based on the UAE’s national interest and commitment to contributing effectively to meeting the market’s pressing needs,” the report added.

The UAE would continue to act as a responsible and reliable energy supplier, bringing additional production to the market in a gradual and measured manner in line with demand and market conditions.

The Emirates also reaffirmed its commitment to investing across the energy value chain, including oil and gas, renewables and low-carbon solutions, and to working with partners to ensure stable global supply.

From an HR perspective, the UAE’s departure from OPEC signals potential shifts in the global energy labour market, including increased demand for specialised talent in domestic oil and gas expansion, as well as in renewables and low-carbon sectors.

Organisations with exposure to Gulf energy markets should anticipate workforce realignments and evolving competency requirements as the country pursues a more independent production strategy.