The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has formally withdrawn from the Organization of Arab Petroleum Exporting Countries (OAPEC), extending its recent shift away from regional oil coordination frameworks.

The decision follows the UAE’s earlier exit from OPEC and the broader OPEC+ alliance, reflecting a clear move toward independent control over energy production and export policy.

OAPEC confirmed the withdrawal and noted the UAE’s long-standing contribution to Arab energy cooperation. The organization said it will continue its work with remaining member states to support joint initiatives in the petroleum and energy sectors.

While OAPEC does not enforce production quotas, the UAE’s exit is seen as part of a wider strategy to remove external constraints on its oil planning and increase flexibility in output decisions.

The move comes amid reported regional tensions and differing positions among Gulf partners on energy policy and responses to recent security-related developments. These factors have contributed to growing divergence in strategic priorities.

UAE Energy Minister Suhail Mohamed Al Mazrouei said the withdrawal was based on national economic interest, underscoring the country’s focus on maximizing autonomy in its energy sector and long-term planning decisions.