Saudi-UAE Media War Raises Fears of Fresh Gulf Tensions
Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates appear to be rising after a wave of sharp criticism from Saudi-linked media outlets, raising concern about the possibility of a new rift inside the Gulf.
The dispute has intensified following clashes in Yemen, where Saudi air strikes reportedly halted an operation by separatist forces believed to have received backing from the UAE. In recent weeks, Saudi state and social media channels have circulated strong accusations, including claims that Abu Dhabi supports instability and separatist movements across multiple regional conflict zones.
Saudi commentary has included allegations that the UAE is interfering in areas such as Yemen, Libya, and parts of the Horn of Africa. Analysts say this type of public hostility is unusual between Gulf allies and resembles the rhetoric seen during earlier regional disagreements.
Despite the public criticism, officials in Abu Dhabi have largely avoided direct responses. Some Emirati voices have suggested the UAE prefers not to escalate tensions with Riyadh, describing Saudi Arabia as the dominant partner in the relationship.
The two countries have long coordinated closely on security and economic matters, but disagreements over regional influence have increasingly surfaced. Saudi commentators argue that the UAE has supported political and military groups that clash with Saudi priorities in places including Yemen and Sudan, while also developing closer ties with Israel since normalizing relations in 2020.
Saudi-backed Yemeni officials recently presented what they described as detention sites linked to UAE-supported factions, a claim the UAE has denied, saying the locations are military facilities.
While experts believe a full diplomatic break is still unlikely, some warn that Saudi Arabia could respond through economic pressure rather than direct confrontation.
At the same time, both countries appear to be strengthening their international partnerships. The UAE has advanced defense talks with India, while Saudi Arabia has expanded cooperation with Pakistan. Differences have also emerged in diplomatic efforts related to Sudan, where a new ceasefire proposal reportedly excludes the UAE.
Recent regional developments — including Somalia cancelling UAE-linked agreements and Saudi Arabia improving ties with Qatar — have added to speculation that competition for influence inside the Gulf is increasing.
Analysts say the situation could still be contained, but the public tone suggests both sides are signaling their ability to escalate if the dispute worsens.
