The Saudi-UAE Rivalry: Emergence of a New Great Game in the Middle East
Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have shown a response to the conflict between Sudan’s military and the Rapid Support Forces, highlighting the need to engage in negotiation. The geopolitical significance of Saudi Arabia concerning Sudan has been brought to attention due to the power struggle of regional actors.
Since the onset of the crisis in Sudan, the monarchy has played a pivotal role as a crucial regional force, taking leadership by giving humanitarian aid and conducting rescue operations. In addition, Riyadh is also showcasing its aptitude for mediation. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expressed concerns about the potential consequences of a protracted war and the potential destabilization of the Sudanese state, as they pose a significant danger to regional security and undermine Saudi Arabia’s aspirations to enhance the development of its Red Sea coastline.
Although the United Arab Emirates initially supported Hemedti’s rapid triumph against Burhan, an extended its support to facilitate political and economic interests. Also, both countries are using a similar approach towards Egypt since they share concerns over the stability of the regime. Additionally, they need Egypt’s assistance in the ongoing civil strife in Sudan.
From a regional perspective, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates exhibit contrasting, enduring approaches in their efforts to establish their regime interest and maintain influence along the Red Sea. Consequently, they demonstrate a preference for distinct resolutions in the ongoing civil strife inside Sudan.
Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have made substantial investments in Sudan, including port and agricultural ventures. These investments are strategically targeted at ensuring their respective food security and acquiring influence over the global trade that passes via the Red Sea to the Suez Canal. The prevailing economic competitiveness significantly influences the perspectives held by individuals towards the warring sides involved in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
In conclusion, it can be added that there exists a divergence between the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia regarding foreign policy choices and economic interests that has led to regional competition in the Middle East. This competition is going to have strategic implications and create new challenges to economic growth of Middle Eastern nations.
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