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

By Ahmad Damen,

Sarah McCammon, Avery Keatley

Published January 17, 2026 at 4:00 PM CST

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.

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