Oil MoU Between UAE and Ecuador to Enable Crude Purchases

Ecuador signed an oil MoU with the United Arab Emirates on Thursday, a move that paves the way for Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) to buy crude from Ecuador’s state oil firm Petroecuador under medium- and long-term arrangements.

Ecuador’s Ministry of Environment and Energy said the oil MoU sets out a roadmap for ADNOC to purchase Ecuadorian crude, while also developing joint marketing mechanisms designed to help Ecuador gain more direct access to refined fuels and reduce reliance on intermediaries.

Joint marketing channels and refined-fuel access

According to the statement, the partners aim to build more efficient trading and supply channels.

Ecuador would benefit from broader commercialization options, while ADNOC could secure additional crude purchasing opportunities through longer-term cooperation.

The oil MoU frames a phased approach covering procurement, marketing coordination, and pathways to refined products.

Broader economic and investment cooperation

Last year, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed hosted Ecuador’s President Daniel Noboa in Abu Dhabi.

In a joint statement, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing strategic partnerships and expanding cooperation to support sustainable economic growth.

The two sides also welcomed Ecuador’s decision to open an embassy in the UAE, officially inaugurated on December 7, 2025, and highlighted the importance of deepening economic and investment ties and widening mutually beneficial trade opportunities.