Saudi minister denies claims of refusal to receive UAE’s deputy ruler

Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Media, Salman Al- Dossary, has denied reports claiming that Riyadh refused to receive Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s National Security Adviser.

In a post on the X platform, Al-Dossary said reports suggesting Saudi Arabia rejected a visit by Sheikh Tahnoun were “incorrect.” “Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed comes to the Kingdom whenever he wishes without the need for permission. Saudi Arabia is his home, and its leadership is his family,” Al-Dossary wrote.

The Saudi denial came after reports spread alleging that Saudi Arabia had refused to host Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed.

On Monday, Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan said that relations with the UAE are extremely important for regional stability. He stressed that the Kingdom is keen to maintain strong and positive ties with the UAE, describing it as an important partner within the Gulf Cooperation Council.

Prince Faisal bin Farhan added: “With regard to Yemen, there is a difference in viewpoints with the UAE.”

He continued: “The UAE has decided to withdraw from Yemen, and if this is the case, and it has indeed fully withdrawn, then the Kingdom will take responsibility there.”

He added: “I believe this is essential for maintaining strong relations between the two countries.”

Tensions have affected relations between Saudi Arabia and the UAE after the UAE‑backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) took control of large areas in southern Yemeni provinces in early December 2025.

Arab coalition forces, led by Saudi Arabia, intervened and carried out air strikes on Southern Transitional Council positions. This was followed by the UAE withdrawing its remaining counter-terrorism forces from Yemen.