UAE Helps Aidarous al-Zubaidi Escape Yemen
Analysis based on 6 articles · First reported Jan 08, 2026 · Last updated Jan 08, 2026
The escalating tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, both major global oil heavyweights, could introduce uncertainty into oil markets and regional stability. The fracturing of the coalition in Yemen further complicates the civil war, potentially prolonging the humanitarian crisis and affecting regional security dynamics.
A significant rift has emerged between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, two close allies and major global oil producers, over the conflict in Yemen. The Saudi-led coalition accused the United Arab Emirates of helping Aidarous al-Zubaidi, head of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC), escape Yemen by boat and then by plane to Abu Dhabi. This occurred after Aidarous al-Zubaidi failed to attend crisis talks in Riyadh. The STC's recent advance through southern Yemen, including taking control of Aden, was declared a threat to Saudi Arabia's national security and has fractured the coalition battling the Iran-backed Houthis. Saudi-backed forces have since advanced into Aden, while Somalia has launched an investigation into the alleged use of its airports in Aidarous al-Zubaidi's escape. This event highlights the differing foreign policy objectives of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in the Middle East.
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