Rising Tensions Between Saudi Arabia and the UAE Over Yemen

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced the withdrawal of its military forces from Yemen, marking a significant shift in its involvement in the ongoing conflict. This decision follows a series of escalatory events, including a Saudi airstrike targeting what Riyadh claimed were Emirati-linked weapons shipments intended for the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a separatist group backed by the UAE. The UAE's Ministry of Defence stated that the withdrawal was a result of a comprehensive assessment of its role in Yemen and aimed at ensuring the safety of its personnel.

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The UAE has been involved in Yemen since 2015 as part of the Saudi-led coalition aimed at restoring the internationally recognized government ousted by the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels. Over the years, the UAE has shifted its strategy, focusing on supporting local militias like the STC, which seeks independence for southern Yemen. This has led to diverging interests between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, which continues to support the Yemeni government and views the STC's actions as a threat to its national security.

Saudi strikes UAE-backed faction in Yemen as Gulf rift deepensSaudi Arabia Questions UAE Role in Yemen Port ClashUAE denies role in Yemen tensions, stresses commitment to stabilityThe New ArabThe GuardianMiddle East EyeTimes of IsraelUAE pulls out final forces from Yemen, denies role in recent escalationsAl Jazeera (website)

The situation escalated dramatically when Saudi Arabia conducted airstrikes on December 30, 2025, targeting vessels in Mukalla port that were allegedly delivering military supplies to the STC. Riyadh condemned the UAE for allegedly pressuring the STC to conduct military operations that threaten Saudi borders. In response, the UAE denied these accusations, asserting that the shipments were intended for its forces and not for the STC.

Middle East Eye

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry expressed disappointment over the UAE's actions, stating, "The steps taken by the UAE are considered highly dangerous," and emphasized that any threat to its national security is a red line. Conversely, the UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected Saudi claims, describing them as "fundamentally inaccurate" and reaffirming its commitment to Saudi security and regional stability.

UAE pulls out final forces from Yemen, denies role in recent escalations

The STC remains defiant, insisting on its right to maintain control over the territories it has seized, including resource-rich areas in Hadramout and Mahra. STC spokesman Anwar al-Tamimi stated, "It is unreasonable for the landowner to be asked to leave his own land," reflecting the group's determination to resist any pressure to withdraw.

The Guardian

There is a notable discrepancy in the narratives surrounding the recent airstrikes and the UAE's role in Yemen. While Saudi Arabia accuses the UAE of supporting separatist movements that threaten its interests, the UAE maintains that it has acted in coordination with Saudi Arabia and has not directed any Yemeni factions to escalate military actions.

UAE Rejects Saudi Claims Linking Abu Dhabi to Rising Tensions in YemenUAE denies role in Yemen tensions, stresses commitment to stabilityThe New ArabMiddle East EyeTimes of IsraelSaudi Arabia Questions UAE Role in Yemen Port ClashUAE pulls out final forces from Yemen, denies role in recent escalationsSaudi strikes UAE-backed faction in Yemen as Gulf rift deepensAl Jazeera (website)

The ongoing tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE could lead to further instability in Yemen, with the potential for renewed conflict among local factions. Analysts suggest that the situation may require diplomatic intervention to prevent a deeper rift between the two Gulf states, which have historically been allies in the region.

The Guardian

In conclusion, the UAE's withdrawal from Yemen amid rising tensions with Saudi Arabia underscores the complexities of the conflict and the fragile political landscape in the region. As both nations navigate their diverging interests, the future of Yemen remains uncertain, with implications that could extend beyond its borders.

The New Arab