Abu Dhabi, UAE – The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Defence announced Friday the complete withdrawal of all its military forces from Yemen. The announcement, carried by the Emirates News Agency (WAM), marks the culmination of a phased drawdown of troops from the country.
According to the Ministry, the withdrawal follows a previously declared decision to conclude the remaining tasks of counter-terrorism units. The move was undertaken to ensure the safety of Emirati personnel and in coordination with relevant partners.
Earlier this week, the Ministry announced the end of the UAE’s counter-terrorism mission in Yemen, citing rapidly evolving developments in the region. The Ministry clarified that the main military presence had concluded in 2019 after its initial involvement in 2015 as part of the Arab Coalition supporting the legitimate government in Yemen. The remaining presence was limited to specialized teams focused on counter-terrorism efforts, operating in conjunction with international partners.
The announcement comes amidst a period of heightened tensions and shifting alliances within Yemen.
The UAE’s involvement in Yemen has been a subject of scrutiny and debate, with varying perspectives on its impact on the conflict and the broader regional dynamics. The complete withdrawal signifies a potential shift in the UAE’s approach to the Yemeni crisis and its role in the region.
DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
