American Website: The UAE’s Withdrawal from Yemen Is “Tactical,” Not the End of Its Influence… and Its Rivalry with Saudi Arabia Goes Beyond Borders
American Report Reveals the Dimensions of the Hidden Competition Between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, Affirming: Yemen Is a Testing Ground for the New Regional Balance of Power
NYN | Reports and Analyses
A recent report published by the American website “Drop Site” confirmed that the Emirati intervention in Yemen has not actually ended, despite the announcement of a military withdrawal. The report argues that what occurred was merely a tactical withdrawal aimed at repositioning rather than abandoning influence.
Withdrawal of Forces Does Not Mean Loss of Influence
The website quoted British researcher Andreas Krieg, Associate Professor of Security Studies at King’s College London, as saying that the withdrawal of military forces “does not necessarily mean a loss of influence.” He explained that Abu Dhabi views Yemen as a central pillar of its long-term maritime and economic geopolitical strategy.
Indirect Tools and an Active Presence on the Ground
According to the report, the UAE continues to maintain its influence in Yemen through indirect tools, including supporting and financing armed factions and political forces loyal to it, in addition to providing logistical and political cover to its allies. This ensures control over strategic ports and vital maritime corridors.
A Dispute That Goes Beyond Local Partners
Krieg noted that the disagreement between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi is no longer limited to the identity of local allies within Yemen, but has evolved into a deeper conflict over the “rules of the regional order” and who holds the reins of leadership and influence in the region.
Competition Extends to Other Regional Arenas
The report pointed out that this escalating rivalry has begun to extend beyond Yemeni geography, with its repercussions clearly visible in other regional crises, most notably the ongoing war in Sudan, amid clashing interests and visions between the two countries.
Yemen as a Testing Ground for the New Balance of Power
“Drop Site” concluded that Yemen has become the primary arena for testing the new balance of power in the Arabian Peninsula, amid growing indications that the simmering tension between Saudi Arabia and the UAE is likely to erupt across multiple regional files beyond Yemen’s borders.
The report affirmed that the conflict between the former allies is becoming more visible and intense, as each side seeks to entrench its position as a dominant power over the region’s vital maritime corridors.
