UAE Vice President Mansour bin Zayed to Visit Saudi Arabia for First Face-to-Face Meeting Since Yemen Rift

Relations between the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia soured after a public disagreement over the conduct of the war in Yemen. The dispute intensified as the two Gulf allies pursued divergent strategies in the conflict, leading to a diplomatic rift that limited high-level contacts for several months.

Times of Israel

Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman extended a personal invitation to his brother, Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister and Head of the Presidential Court. The Saudi defence ministry announced the invitation on the social platform X, and the UAE news agency WAM confirmed that Sheikh Mansour accepted and would travel to Riyadh for a “brotherly visit.” The invitation and acceptance were posted publicly in July, accompanied by social-media messages from senior officials that emphasized friendship and unity.

Times of Israel

At the time of the planned visit, Saudi Arabia was contending with a surge of Houthi attacks targeting its oil tankers, refinery facilities, airports and even the capital city. The militant group had seized portions of the Red Sea coastline previously held by Saudi-backed forces, heightening concerns over maritime security and energy supply stability.

Times of Israel

The upcoming meeting marks the first direct dialogue between senior UAE and Saudi officials since the Yemen fallout, suggesting a possible thaw in relations. Analysts note that renewed personal contact could facilitate coordination on security matters, especially joint responses to Houthi aggression. The visit also signals a broader diplomatic overture, as both governments have recently posted messages of unity on social media, hinting at a willingness to reconcile differences and restore a cooperative stance in the Gulf region.

Times of Israel