UAE and Saudi Arabia Assess Stance Amid Ethiopia Tigray Conflict

The United Arab Emirates has publicly supported Ethiopia's federal government while calling for an end to hostilities in the Tigray region. The UAE condemned attacks by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front and its allies against federal forces.

Saudi Arabia has not publicly announced its position on the renewed fighting, though it previously mediated between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Recent diplomatic efforts by Riyadh have not yet addressed current tensions.

Ethiopia’s pursuit of maritime access has heightened tensions with Eritrea, which rejects any threat to its sovereignty. Accusations of Eritrean troop involvement remain unproven, but both sides continue to accuse each other of supporting armed groups.

Egypt’s longstanding dispute with Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam adds to regional instability. Egypt has maintained a close relationship with Eritrea, but no direct involvement in the current conflict has been confirmed.

The UAE’s commercial interests in the Horn of Africa, including operations in Somaliland, suggest a stake in regional stability. However, its ability to influence the conflict or encourage a political resolution remains unclear.

Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic history includes failed mediation efforts between Ethiopia and Eritrea, partly due to unresolved issues over Red Sea access. Its broader regional alignment with Egypt and Eritrea complicates its role in the current crisis.