Iran informed Saudi Arabia and Oman of a plan to “severely target” the United Arab Emirates in response to a potential war involving the United States and Israel, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.
The report suggests that Tehran’s message was part of a broader strategy to widen divisions among Gulf Arab states, particularly between Abu Dhabi and its regional neighbors. Iranian officials reportedly highlighted existing disagreements between Saudi Arabia and the UAE during discussions with Saudi counterparts.
Although the timing of these communications remains unclear, Saudi officials are said to have rejected Iran’s aggressive rhetoric. Despite longstanding tensions, Riyadh and Tehran have maintained diplomatic engagement. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, signaling continued dialogue.
Growing Gulf Rivalries
Tensions between Saudi Arabia and the UAE have intensified in recent years, with both countries competing for regional influence. Diverging policies have emerged in conflict zones such as Yemen and Sudan, where the two nations support opposing factions.
Reports also indicate that Saudi Arabia has attempted to shift alliances in eastern Libya by supporting forces led by Khalifa Haftar, potentially reducing the UAE’s influence there.
UAE in the Crosshairs
The UAE has been among the most affected Gulf countries amid escalating hostilities. Iran has reportedly launched thousands of ballistic missiles and drone strikes targeting the country. The UAE, along with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, hosts a significant number of US troops and maintains close defense ties with Washington.
Despite regional opposition to a US–Israel war against Iran, Gulf states have largely aligned with Washington, though with varying degrees of support. Saudi Arabia reportedly allowed the use of its airspace and bases while also backing mediation efforts by Pakistan.
In contrast, the UAE has been more assertive, lobbying both publicly and privately for continued military action against Iran and opposing diplomatic mediation efforts.
Strengthening UAE–Israel Ties
The conflict has also deepened strategic cooperation between the UAE and Israel. According to Financial Times, Israel supplied advanced weapons, including laser-based defense systems, to support the UAE during attacks on Iran.
Speculation has also grown over possible direct UAE involvement in strikes inside Iran, particularly after a Chinese-made Wing Loong II drone was shot down near Shiraz.
Economic and Security Fallout
The UAE’s vulnerability stems partly from its openness as a global tourism and financial hub. Cities like Dubai, known for luxury tourism and emerging sectors such as cryptocurrency, have seen declining visitor numbers amid the conflict.
Some high-profile properties have reduced prices, while the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel remains closed for long-term renovation after reportedly sustaining damage during missile strikes early in the war.
Despite significant damage and risks, analysts say the UAE has emerged as one of the most vocal Gulf states opposing Iran, driven by concerns that the United States might eventually withdraw from the region, leaving it exposed to Tehran’s growing influence—particularly in strategic waterways like the Strait of Hormuz.
