Yemen Monitor / Newsroom
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan confirmed today, Monday, that there are differences in vision between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates regarding the Yemeni file. He noted that Abu Dhabi’s decision for a full withdrawal from Yemen is a fundamental element for the continuation of strong relations between the two countries.
Speaking at a press conference held with his Polish counterpart, Radosław Sikorski, in Poland, Prince Faisal bin Farhan stated that Saudi-Emirati relations are vital for regional stability, emphasizing the Kingdom’s keenness to maintain strong and positive ties with the UAE.
He added that the relationship with the UAE is of utmost importance at the regional level, stressing the necessity of maintaining positive relations as both countries serve as a primary pillar within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) framework, despite the existence of divergent views on certain issues—foremost among them, Yemen.
The Saudi Foreign Minister clarified that the complete withdrawal of the UAE from Yemen is one of the main foundations for ensuring the strength and continuity of the relationship between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, asserting at the same time that the Kingdom will fulfill its responsibilities in this context.
This marks the first official statement by a Saudi official since the recent crisis erupted between Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. The tension followed movements by separatist militias on the Kingdom’s southern border—reportedly under Emirati direction—last month, which Riyadh viewed as a threat to its national security.
The UAE had previously decided to exit Yemen following a request from the Head of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council for Abu Dhabi to withdraw all of its forces from the country.
