UAE Exits OPEC and OPEC+ Effective May 1, Potentially Benefiting Trump Administration

Gate News message, April 28 — The United Arab Emirates announced on April 28 that it will withdraw from OPEC and OPEC+ effective May 1, dealing a significant blow to the organization and its de facto leader Saudi Arabia amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and energy market disruptions triggered by regional conflicts.

The move marks a major shift for the long-standing OPEC member. U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized OPEC for using oil price increases to “extort the rest of the world,” and has linked American military support in the Gulf region to oil pricing policies, arguing that while the U.S. protects OPEC members, they exploit this security umbrella by maintaining elevated oil prices.

The UAE, a key U.S. ally and regional commercial hub, has previously expressed frustration with other Arab states over insufficient protection against Iranian attacks during the conflict. The withdrawal is expected to weaken OPEC’s cohesion and influence, as internal divisions over geopolitical issues, production quotas, and regional security have already strained the organization’s ability to maintain a unified stance.