Saudi-UAE rift risks tearing Middle East apart: ‘anything can happen’

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Tom HussainJanuary 25, 2026 at 09:00 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

In 2026, the Middle East faces increasing instability due to shifting global dynamics and intensifying regional rivalries. Conflict hotspots are flaring across the region, from Gaza to Syria. A central factor is the growing competition between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, former allies with diverging visions of regional leadership. This rivalry is leading to the formation of two distinct blocs: one potentially including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Egypt, Turkey, and Pakistan, and another consisting of the UAE, Israel, and India. Analysts suggest this reordering of alliances increases the risk of further violence in the region.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Qatar 50% Oman 50% Turkey 50% Egypt 50% Pakistan 50% India ×260% Centre for Strategic and International Studies 60% Israel 60% Mona Yacoubian ×270% United Arab Emirates ×490% Saudi Arabia ×390% Middle East ×3100%

Keywords

middle east 100% saudi arabia 90% uae 90% rivalry 80% regional leadership 70% conflict 60% geopolitics 50% international relations 50% emerging order 40%