Saudi Arabia and UAE: Alliance Breakdown

The alliance between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) appears to be dissolving, with differences openly manifested in Yemen and elsewhere. Rumors of a dispute between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MbS) and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MbZ) are intensifying.

Clash of ambitions: MbZ, once considered a mentor to MbS, sees the latter's ambitions diverging as the Saudi prince pursues economic reforms and consolidation of his rule.

Disagreements in Yemen and Sudan: Riyadh accuses the UAE of destabilization in Yemen and Sudan by supporting opposing factions. The Emirates' 'obsession' against the Muslim Brotherhood is also a point of friction.

Yemen: Riyadh accused the Emirates of 'extremely dangerous' actions due to their support for the Southern Transitional Council (STC) separatist movement.

Sudan: Saudi Arabia and the UAE support opposing camps, with the Emirates accused of arming the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).

Horn of Africa: The strategic location of the Horn of Africa is also a subject of rivalry, with the Emirates having relations with Ethiopia and Somaliland, while Saudi Arabia supports Mogadishu.

Economy: The rivalry between the two countries has also intensified in the economic field, with Riyadh seeking to attract multinational companies and create competitive resort centers.