Horn Of Africa Becoming 'Battleground' For Rival Gulf Monarchies
- Dylan Gamba
- Feb 6
- 2 min read
Original Author:Ā Dylan Gamba
Original Publication:Ā Barronās (AFP)
Date:Ā February 5, 2026
Curated Excerpt (Fair Use)
This article examines how the Horn of Africa is increasingly becoming a geopolitical battleground for rival Gulf monarchies, particularly the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, as they compete for influence along one of the worldās most strategic maritime corridors linking the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.
The author highlights the UAEās expansive footprint across the region, from large-scale investments in Ethiopia to deep involvement in Somaliland through DP Worldās port and airfield projects. Analysts cited in the piece argue that Emirati backing has reshaped regional alignments and may have played a role in Israelās recent recognition of Somaliland, a move that has heightened tensions with Mogadishu and alarmed neighboring states.
The report situates this rivalry within a broader breakdown of Gulf cooperation, noting how former allies in Yemen now support opposing factions and how Saudi Arabia is countering Emirati influence through new alignments with Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia. Ethiopiaās growing financial dependence on Gulf capital, Sudanās civil war, and Red Sea security concerns are presented as interconnected fault lines exacerbated by external competition.
Ultimately, the article warns that asymmetric power relations between wealthy Gulf states and fragile Horn of Africa countries risk deepening instability, with analysts cautioning that unchecked rivalry could escalate into a wider regional conflict.
About the Author
Dylan Gamba is a journalist reporting on international politics and security, with a focus on Africa, the Middle East, and geopolitical competition in strategic regions.
This is a curated article from an external publication. All views expressed belong to the original author. Gallaydh.com curates external work to encourage informed discussion and critical engagement.
