Algeria has officially halted Algeria UAE relations. Algiers announced this decision on Thursday. It cited a series of “provocative and hostile acts” by the Gulf nation. This move marks a significant escalation.
Furthermore, Algeria will close its airspace to all United Arab Emirates flights. This restriction begins on Friday. However, commercial flights to and from Algiers will continue. They have an exemption until the end of 2026.
Relations between the two countries have been tense for years. Much of this stems from the UAE’s growing influence. Its activities across northern and western Africa have caused friction.
The Algerian Foreign Ministry stated its position clearly. It had “exhausted all avenues” to preserve bilateral ties. Nevertheless, the UAE “persisted in its actions.” These actions became “unacceptable or intolerable.” Consequently, Algiers gave the UAE’s ambassador 48 hours to leave.
Meanwhile, the Emirati Foreign Ministry responded to the decision. It expressed hope that the break would be temporary. The ministry emphasized “fraternal ties” between the two peoples. It also affirmed appreciation for the “brotherly Algerian people.”
Following the announcement, a key UAE official commented. Anwar Gargash, a diplomatic advisor, posted on X. He stated that diplomatic relations require “rationality, communication and clarity.” He avoided mentioning Algeria directly.
Algeria has previously accused Abu Dhabi of destabilizing regional states. For example, it pointed to Libya, Mali, and Sudan. The UAE denies supporting the RSF paramilitary in Sudan’s ongoing civil war. By contrast, it openly backs Khalifa Haftar’s administration in eastern Libya. This entity rivals the UN-recognized government in Tripoli.
Algerian President Abdelmajid Tebboune strongly criticized the UAE in July. He deplored its influence in other nations. Tebboune remarked, “wherever they set foot, blood flows.” He added, “We want them to stay away, so that blood does not flow in our country.”
The breakdown of Algeria UAE relations also recalls past diplomatic disputes. In 2021, Algeria severed ties with neighboring Morocco. That decision came amid long-standing tensions over Western Sahara. Additionally, Algiers accused Rabat of supporting Amazigh separatists.
