Energy Daily

UAE’s OPEC Split Reflects Twilight of the Oil Age

Abu Dhabi’s departure suggests an urgency to open the taps while it still can.

*OPEC insists oil consumption will keep rising until at least 2050, but views among the wider industry suggest a more imminent plateau.*Photographer: Martin Divisek/Bloomberg

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By Grant Smith and Sam Dagher

April 29, 2026 at 11:46 AM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

Welcome to our guide to the commodities driving the global economy. Today, OPEC reporter Grant Smith explores the rationale behind Abu Dhabi’s surprise decision to leave the organization after 60 years.

The story of the UAE’s shock exit from OPEC is ultimately about the twilight of the oil age.