Why the UAE leaving OPEC could reshape global energy politics | Mohammed Baharoon interview

The UAE’s decision to leave OPEC after more than 50 years marks a major shift in global energy strategy. Mohammed Baharoon, Director General of the Dubai Public Policy Research Centre, explains why Abu Dhabi’s move should be seen less as a political break and more as a geoeconomic decision driven by energy security, supply chains, and future partnerships.

In this interview, Baharoon discusses the Strait of Hormuz crisis, the changing role of OPEC, UAE-Saudi relations, US and China ties, AI as the “new oil,” alternative currencies for energy trade, and future pipeline routes through the Arabian Peninsula.