United Arab Emirates to Participate in Military Exercises in Saudi Arabia

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES (UAE) - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) took part in the Gulf Shield 2026 joint military exercise, which was attended by member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), held in Saudi Arabia. Ministry of Defense of the UAE.

"The Gulf Shield 2026 joint military exercise has been completed in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, followed by the air forces and air defense forces of the member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council, as well as the Integrated Military Command," according to a statement from the UAE Ministry of Defense, reported by ANTARA from Sputnik, Saturday, January 10.

The purpose of the exercise is to develop "advanced military capabilities, improve combat readiness to face current and future threats, and strengthen the concept of joint defense and prevention to ensure security and stability in the region," the statement said.

On January 2, the UAE Ministry of Defense confirmed that all Emirati military personnel had left Yemen, following a request from Yemeni authorities and a call from Saudi Arabia.

Tensions with Riyadh escalated after the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) took control of Hadhramaut and Al Mahrah provinces in eastern Yemen.

On December 30, 2025, Saudi Arabia attacked a port in the city of Al Mukalla, Yemen, where, according to Saudi Arabia, military supplies sent from the UAE to the STC forces were dismantled.