Saudi Arabia Criticizes UAE, Accuses It of Serving Israeli Interests in the Region

Riyadh -UNS: Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates escalated as Saudi commentators launched sharp criticism against Abu Dhabi, accusing it of acting as a “functional tool” serving Israeli interests in the Arab world and the broader Middle East, while competing with Riyadh in implementing regional agendas.
In a post on social media platform X, Saudi activist Hussain Al-Ghawi described the UAE as a “functional state operating under a functional entity,” referring to Israel, claiming that the country engages in destabilizing activities across the region while simultaneously translating criticisms directed at it into “loyalty reports” for the Israeli entity.
Al-Ghawi added: “It is inappropriate to elevate the UAE to the status of an adversary, let alone an enemy,” emphasizing that the passage of time would reveal that the Emirates is merely a tool, and tools are routinely replaced when their mission concludes.
Context of Regional Rivalries
The remarks highlight a growing undercurrent of competition and mistrust between two former allies, reflecting a silent struggle over strategic influence and regional priorities. Analysts note that this criticism comes amid wider geopolitical tensions, including concerns over military, economic, and diplomatic alignments in the Gulf.
Iranian media further fueled the discourse, asserting that Gulf states, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, financed regional conflicts through holdings in U.S. Treasury bonds, sovereign wealth funds, central banks, and private investment companies. According to Tehran-based outlets, these countries effectively acted as financial partners in conflicts threatening regional security, supporting weapons, logistics, and infrastructure now used against Iranian targets.
Meanwhile, reports from Al-Sharq Al-Awsat indicate that Tehran has sent indirect messages to Israel, suggesting that it would refrain from responding to limited Israeli strikes, while asserting that any significant attack on Iranian oil or nuclear infrastructure would cross red lines. The United States is reportedly aware of this position, although details regarding what constitutes a “limited” attack remain unclear.
Simultaneously, NBC News reported that Israel has prepared contingency plans for retaliatory strikes on Iranian military and energy targets, without current intentions to target nuclear facilities or government leaders. Israeli authorities have not finalized the timing or scope of any response.
Implications
The Saudi critique of the UAE underscores a broader regional realignment, with Gulf states navigating complex alliances amid the Israeli-Iranian rivalry. Analysts suggest that public commentary from activists like Al-Ghawi signals deepening political friction, potentially influencing diplomatic and security strategies in the Gulf and the wider Middle East.