Saudi-UAE tensions in Yemen: UAE pulls forces from Yemen amid crisis with Saudi Arabia
The UAE announced on December 30, 2025, its voluntary withdrawal of remaining “counterterrorism teams” from Yemen following an ultimatum from Yemen’s Saudi-backed presidential council and escalating tensions with Saudi Arabia. This move stems from accusations that the UAE supports the Southern Transitional Council (STC), which recently advanced into resource-rich provinces like Hadramawt and Mahra.
Saudi-led coalition airstrikes hit a shipment at Mukalla port on December 30, claiming it carried weapons for UAE-backed STC separatists; the UAE denied this, insisting the vehicles were for its own forces. Yemen’s presidential council head Rashad al-Alimi then canceled a defense pact with the UAE, demanded troop withdrawal within 24 hours, and declared a 90-day state of emergency. Saudi Arabia endorsed the ultimatum, labeling UAE actions a “red line” threatening its security near the border.
Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, once aligned in the anti-Houthi coalition since 2015, have diverged over Yemen strategy, with the UAE favoring STC separatists seeking southern independence while Saudi backs the internationally recognized government. The STC rejected withdrawal demands from its new territories, vowing to reinforce positions amid reports of 15,000 Saudi-backed fighters massing nearby. Both Gulf states expressed interest in dialogue to avert further escalation.
