Algeria could consider breaking off relations with the Emirates, according to Algerian media
Algeria is experiencing a period of relative isolation, coinciding with the strong global support enjoyed by its neighbour and political rival Morocco, which has more fluid relations with many of the major countries on the international stage.
This situation could worsen according to various reports from Algerian media outlets close to the government, which have raised the possibility of a dramatic breakdown in diplomatic relations between Algeria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The possible break comes amid accusations that Abu Dhabi is engaging in ‘hostile’ activities, including alleged support for the Movement for the Autonomy of Kabylia (MAK), a separatist group designated as a terrorist organisation by the Algerian authorities.
- Reports and indications of a possible break with the UAE
- Sources of friction and background to bilateral tensions
- Lack of official confirmation and role of the media
Reports and indications of a possible break with the UAE
The speculation was fuelled by a recent article in El-Khabar, a newspaper widely considered to be aligned with Algerian official circles.
The publication posed the blunt question: ‘Will Algeria sever diplomatic relations with the United Arab Emirates?’ It suggested that the answer could come ‘in the coming days,’ citing Algeria's ‘deep dissatisfaction’ with practices described as hostile and disconnected from ‘Arab brotherhood, historical relations or common destiny.’
At the heart of the accusations is the UAE's alleged support for the MAK, a Paris-based movement advocating for self-determination in the predominantly Amazigh (Berber) region of Kabylia in Algeria.
Algerian officials view any external engagement with the MAK as a direct threat to national unity and sovereignty, a red line that has previously led to the severing of ties with other nations, such as Morocco in 2021.
The El-Khabar article warned that the persistence of the UAE's conspiratorial policies could bring bilateral relations to a point of no return, including the possibility of a definitive diplomatic break. It also mentioned reports that the UAE ambassador to Algiers has been declared persona non grata, and that Algerian entities have reportedly ceased all relations with him.
Sources of friction and background to bilateral tensions
Tensions between Algiers and Abu Dhabi are not new, but they have intensified in recent years.
Algeria has accused the UAE of engaging in destabilising activities in neighbouring countries such as Libya, Mali and Sudan, often through financial support for factions opposed to Algerian interests.
Algeria's staunch opposition to the Abraham Accords, signed by the UAE in 2020, has been a major source of irritation.
Algiers considers normalisation a betrayal of the Palestinian cause.
The UAE's close alliance with Morocco, which includes investment and diplomatic support on issues such as Western Sahara, has further alienated Algeria, which supports the separatist Polisario Front.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has repeatedly alluded to these grievances without always directly naming the UAE, stating on one occasion that Algeria maintains ‘excellent relations with all its Gulf brother countries, except one.’
Lack of official confirmation and role of the media
Neither the Algerian nor the Emirati government has issued official statements confirming or denying plans for a diplomatic break.
The UAE has not responded publicly to the latest reports. However, pro-government media rhetoric suggests that Algiers is taking a firm stance against the alleged interference.
Analysts note that Algeria has a history of using media leaks to test public reaction or put pressure on adversaries before taking formal action.