OPEC+ is expected to greenlight a significant boost in oil production for September, with insiders saying the group will likely increase output by around 550,000 barrels per day (bpd). This step would mark the final phase of restoring the 2.17 million bpd in voluntary cuts made earlier by eight key member nations.

The increase also gives the United Arab Emirates a chance to fully utilize its upgraded production quota, raising its output to about 3.375 million bpd. The UAE had previously pushed for a higher limit, arguing that it had invested in the capacity to produce more than 4 million bpd.

Since April, the oil alliance—led by countries like Saudi Arabia and Russia—has been gradually rolling back cuts made to support prices during recent market challenges. Despite a drop in oil prices, the group has continued adding barrels monthly, with 548,000 bpd already set for August. If the September plan is approved, total increases since April will reach roughly 2.47 million bpd, or just under 2.5% of global oil demand.

Originally, the UAE’s higher quota was scheduled for full implementation by September 2026. However, with OPEC+ fast-tracking its production recovery, the UAE will now meet that target a year earlier than planned.

Energy expert Richard Bronze said the UAE is benefitting from the group’s decision to accelerate the return of oil to the market.

Despite these increases, OPEC+ still maintains separate cuts totaling 3.66 million bpd, a mix of group-wide and voluntary reductions, which are expected to stay in effect through the end of 2026.

The final decision on the September increase will be made during the group’s next meeting on August 3.