Is UAE Secretly Helping Houthis Fight Saudi-Backed Forces in Yemen?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is allegedly sharing intelligence with Iran-backed Houthis to help them target Saudi-backed forces in Yemen, according to a report by Drop Site News. Citing four regional sources, the report alleges that Emirati assistance could undermine Saudi Arabia's military campaign and expose deepening divisions between the Gulf neighbours.

Two sources alleged that the UAE directly shared intelligence with the Houthis, while UAE-aligned Yemeni commanders reportedly provided additional targeting assistance through separate communication channels. The intelligence reportedly concerns military targets inside Yemen, not Saudi Arabia. A source said communications remained open despite a senior US official warning Abu Dhabi to stop the alleged assistance. However, senior Houthi official Mohammed al-Bukhaiti denied receiving Emirati support, insisting that the UAE remained neutral.

The allegations highlight the rivalry between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MBZ). Although both countries joined the Yemen war in 2015 to counter the Houthis, their objectives diverged. Saudi Arabia backed Yemen's internationally recognised government, while the UAE supported southern separatists seeking an independent South Yemen.

Their differences escalated in December 2025, when Saudi-backed forces clashed with UAE-aligned groups, effectively forcing Abu Dhabi out of Yemen. Earlier this month, the UAE reportedly agreed to resume funding some previously supported forces, including the Southern Giants Brigades, which are fighting to control the strategically important Kahboub mountain range overlooking the Bab al-Mandab Strait.

The report also alleges that some UAE-aligned commanders have repeatedly abandoned positions without engaging the Houthis, weakening the government-backed offensive. Units associated with the Southern Transitional Council (STC) have reportedly avoided fighting in Al-Dhale and Lahj. STC representative Amr al-Baidh rejected the allegations, saying southern forces would resist any Houthi advance into southern Yemen but would not participate in northern operations.

If the allegations prove true, Abu Dhabi could be pursuing its own strategic interests while Riyadh attempts to reclaim lost territory, further complicating Yemen's conflict.