A Saudi-UAE rift is turning two close allies into regional rivals

By Ahmad Damen,

Sarah McCammon, Avery Keatley

Published January 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM MST

The key question now is whether the Saudi-UAE rift settles back into business as usual or accelerates into a wider realignment, says Marc Lynch, professor of political science and international affairs at George Washington University.

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All Things Considered

Ahmad Damen

Ahmad Damen is an editor for All Things Considered based in Washington, D.C. He first joined NPR's and WBUR's Here & Now as an editor in 2024. Damen brings more than 15 years of experience in journalism, with roles spanning six countries.

Sarah McCammon

Sarah McCammon is a National Correspondent covering the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast for NPR. Her work focuses on political, social and cultural divides in America, including abortion and reproductive rights, and the intersections of politics and religion. She's also a frequent guest host for NPR news magazines, podcasts and special coverage.

Avery Keatley

See stories by Avery Keatley

A Saudi-UAE rift is turning two close allies into regional rivals

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