UAE Quits OPEC, Shifts Alliances in Middle East

0:00It's April 29th. Global news today starts now. AI powered and always on. The United Arab Emirates just dropped the bomb show by announcing its exit from OPEC and OPEC Plus, Effective May 1st. One of the biggest oil producers in the group, they're stepping back amid a full review of their roles in all kinds of multilateral organizations. But officials say no other withdrawals are on the table right now. This move fuels talk that Abu Dhabi might bail on groups like the Arab League or the Gulf Cooperation Council next. It deepens the growing tension with neighbor Saudi Arabia, OPEC's real powerhouse. What started as a tight alliance has turned into a rivalry over oil strategies, regional power plays, and even grabbing global talents in cash. Folks in the UAE are calling out the GCC and Arab League for weak support during the Iran War. Senior official Anwar Gargash said their political and military stance was the lowest ever, especially from the GCC where they expected more backbone.

1:03That disappointment has everyone rethinking old ties. Now Abu Dhabi is scrutinizing who they can really count on, pushing for strategic autonomy while beefing up their economy. They've doubled down on bonds with the United States and Israel since the Abraham Accords, seeing those as keys to influence and security. As the UAE charts its own course as a business hub and regional player, this OPEC split signals bigger shifts in alliances across the Middle East.