Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has launched a scathing diplomatic offensive against the United Arab Emirates, accusing the Gulf nation of systematic interference in Algeria’s electoral processes and regional destabilization efforts. The allegations emerged during a state-media broadcast interview on Saturday where Tebboune conspicuously avoided direct naming of the UAE while clearly referencing their activities.
The president characterized relations with most Gulf states as “more than fraternal,” specifically praising Saudi Arabia and Kuwait’s leadership. However, his tone shifted dramatically when addressing the UAE, which he dismissed as “a state, not to say a mini-state, that is just posturing.”
This diplomatic rupture coincides with Algeria’s formal termination of the 2013 air services agreement between the nations. State media announced the cancellation without explicit justification, noting that proper procedures through diplomatic channels and ICAO notification would follow. The Emirati Civil Aviation Authority responded that flight operations remain unaffected during the mandated notice period.
The current tensions reflect years of growing antagonism. During Algeria’s 2019 Hirak movement that ousted President Bouteflika, protesters frequently targeted the UAE as a reactionary force opposing democratic reforms. Demonstrators carried signs proclaiming “No to the UAE on the land of the martyrs,” referencing Algeria’s liberation struggle against France.
Official Algerian circles have repeatedly accused UAE diplomats of “suspicious moves” and alleged the ambassador was “on a mission to destabilise” the country. President Tebboune further suggested the UAE threatens international arbitration over investments, to which he defiantly responded: “Let them go to arbitration.”
Algerian media reports indicate the crisis may deepen further. Newspaper El-Khabar, known for government proximity, suggested the UAE might be supporting the Movement for the Autonomy of Kabylia (MAK)—a separatist group designated as terrorist organization by Algeria. The publication stated that “the question of whether Algeria will sever its diplomatic relations with Abu Dhabi is being raised with increasing urgency,” describing UAE actions as “hostile” and contrary to “Arab brotherhood.”
Africa Intelligence previously reported that Algeria is systematically reducing diplomatic ties with the UAE, with President Tebboune deciding to minimize Algeria’s diplomatic representation to bare essentials. The El-Khabar report additionally indicated that the UAE ambassador has effectively become persona non grata, with Algerian entities ceasing engagement with the diplomatic mission.