The United Arab Emirates said early Saturday it had withdrawn all its troops from Yemen, formally ending its remaining counterterrorism missions, as Saudi Arabia reiterated its focus on de-escalation, dialogue, and a comprehensive political solution to the conflict.
According to the Emirati Ministry of Defence, the withdrawal of remaining personnel was carried out voluntarily and in coordination with partners, following an assessment of current security requirements. The move marks the conclusion of the UAE’s military presence in Yemen.
Saudi Arabia, which has consistently underscored the need for stability and political dialogue in Yemen, continued diplomatic efforts amid evolving developments in the country’s south and east. Riyadh has emphasised that sustainable peace can only be achieved through inclusive talks under internationally recognised frameworks.
Amid reports of tensions involving southern factions, Saudi Arabia’s ambassador to Yemen, Mohammed Al Jabir, said the Kingdom remains committed to supporting dialogue and preventing further escalation, while encouraging all parties to prioritise Yemen’s national interest.
Yemeni government authorities reported that their forces had regained control of several strategic military sites in Hadramaut after the withdrawal of armed elements from those positions. State media said the Nation’s Shield Forces secured the Brigade 37 camp in the Al-Khashaa area, described as one of the province’s key military installations.
In a separate statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency, Saudi Arabia welcomed a request by Rashad Al-Alimi, president of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council, to convene a comprehensive conference in Riyadh bringing together all southern factions.
#Statement | In response to the request of H.E. Dr. Rashad Al-Alimi, President of the Yemeni Presidential Leadership Council, to convene a comprehensive conference in Riyadh to bring together all southern factions to discuss just solutions to the southern cause. pic.twitter.com/uWfJWeth13
— Foreign Ministry 🇸🇦 (@KSAmofaEN) January 3, 2026
The Kingdom said the southern issue is a just cause with historical and social dimensions, stressing that it can only be resolved through dialogue within the framework of a comprehensive political settlement in Yemen. Saudi Arabia called on all southern components to participate constructively in the proposed talks to develop a unified vision that fulfils the legitimate aspirations of the southern people, while safeguarding Yemen’s security, unity and stability.
Riyadh reaffirmed its continued commitment to supporting peace efforts in Yemen and to providing a conducive environment for inclusive dialogue aimed at ending the conflict and restoring long-term stability to the country.
