UAE pulls out final forces from Yemen, denies role in recent escalations
ABU DHABI –
The United Arab Emirates has voluntarily ended the mission of its counterterrorism units in Yemen, the country’s last remaining military presence there, the UAE defence ministry announced on Tuesday. The move comes amid rising tensions with Saudi Arabia following recent airstrikes targeting Emirati vehicles in southern Yemen.
The defence ministry said the decision followed a “comprehensive assessment” in light of recent developments, according to state news agency WAM.
Following the UAE's announcement of ending deployement in Yemen, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE President Mohammed Gargash underscored the UAE’s longstanding approach of placing wisdom above reaction and prioritising stability over the noise of escalation.
In a post on his official X account, Gargash said: “The UAE’s position once again reflects a commitment to calm judgement, responsible leadership and a clear preference for safeguarding regional stability at a time of heightened tensions.”
He added that the country continues to champion reasoned decision-making over emotional responses, stressing the importance of preserving security and balance in the region.
On the same day, the UAE firmly rejected Saudi claims suggesting it played a role in exacerbating Yemen’s internal conflict. In an official statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “deep regret” over the Saudi accusations, which it described as containing “fundamental inaccuracies” regarding its role in Yemen. The ministry categorically denied exerting influence over any Yemeni faction to conduct operations that could threaten Saudi security or destabilise the region.
“Since the outset of events in the governorates of Hadhramout and Mahra, our position has focused on containing the situation, supporting de-escalation efforts, and pushing towards understandings that contribute to preserving security and stability and protecting civilians, in coordination with Saudi Arabia,” the UAE statement read.
Saudi Arabia, which leads the coalition against Iran-backed Houthi rebels, condemned the Southern Transitional Council’s (STC) recent takeover of Hadhramout and Mahra, accusing the UAE of being involved. The STC, which seeks to establish an independent southern state, justified its operations by citing the failure of other pro-government factions to confront the Houthis effectively in northern strongholds, including the capital Sana’a.
“The UAE strongly rejects any attempt to drag its name into tensions between Yemeni parties and condemns allegations it directed military operations,” the statement continued, affirming that the equipment targeted by Saudi airstrikes at Mukalla port was intended solely for Emirati forces.
The UAE highlighted its long-standing commitment to Saudi security, stressing its “full respect for the kingdom’s sovereignty and national security” and the importance of “fraternal and historic relations” between the two Gulf powers. The ministry also urged “restraint and wisdom” in handling the situation to prevent escalation, protect civilians, and maintain coordination against terrorist groups, including Al-Qaeda, the Houthis, and the Muslim Brotherhood.
The dispute underscores Yemen’s fragile political landscape, where infighting among anti-Houthi factions risks undermining efforts to stabilise the war-torn country and counter Iran-backed rebels who have controlled the north and the capital for over a decade.
The UAE has historically played a critical role in Yemen as part of the Saudi-led coalition, supporting the Yemeni government and combating extremist groups. Its statement reiterated that its presence in Yemen was at the invitation of the legitimate government and aligned with regional efforts to restore stability while respecting Yemeni sovereignty.
