Rabah Arezki & Tarik M. Yousef argue that the commodity cartel’s weakening grip on the Gulf reflects a broader regional fragmentation.
en English
May 20, 2026
Rabah Arezki
and Tarik M. Yousef
The United Arab Emirates’ decision to leave OPEC is the clearest expression yet of its desire to break from the Saudi-led regional order. The result could be a more fragmented Middle East marked by intensifying rivalries among Gulf powers, widening proxy conflicts, and chronic instability.
The move reflects a widening confrontation with Saudi Arabia and a fundamental realignment of alliances.
The United Arab Emirates' decision to leave OPEC is reverberating across global energy markets, sparking questions on who else…
A standoff between Gulf oil giants Saudi Arabia and the UAE could cause greater market volatility for years to come
While the UAE’s departure from oil cartel is disruptive, it could also further drive apart Gulf Cooperation Council members,…
Gulf state to leave petroleum cartel from 1 May following regional energy shocks
Abu Dhabi, long at odds over quotas, says exit will free output as experts point to Saudi rift and push to boost production.
