Pakistan Caught Between Saudi Arabia and UAE Amid Rising Gulf Tensions

Islamabad: As relations between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) deteriorate, Pakistan finds itself in a precarious position, facing increasing pressure to choose sides. Historically, Pakistan has maintained close ties with both countries, with strategic, defense, and economic interests intertwined. This has left Islamabad uncertain about how to navigate the escalating Gulf tensions.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently spoke with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reaffirming Pakistan’s solidarity with Riyadh. However, alienating the UAE remains a challenge, especially as Abu Dhabi strengthens its economic and investment footprint in Pakistan. During a semi-official visit, the UAE announced plans to invest nearly $1 billion in the Fauji Foundation, Pakistan’s military-run conglomerate, and roll over an additional $2 billion in loans.

A Delicate Balancing Act
Pakistan’s dilemma became particularly acute when Saudi forces struck UAE-bound military shipments in Yemen, coinciding with the UAE president’s visit to Islamabad. While Pakistan has expressed unity with Saudi Arabia, it has avoided direct confrontation against the UAE, which could upset long-standing relations.

Sources indicate that Pakistan seeks to expand defense collaboration with Turkey, hoping to integrate it into existing Saudi-Pakistan agreements. At the same time, Islamabad plans to sell around $1.5 billion worth of arms to Sudan, which could potentially counter UAE-backed Rapid Support Forces (RSF), adding another layer of complexity to its strategic calculations.

Pressure from Riyadh
Saudi Arabia is reportedly monitoring Pakistan’s stance on the UAE closely, sending both signals and explicit messages. Talks are underway to convert approximately $2 billion in Saudi loans into a JF-17 fighter jet deal, and high-level meetings between the Pakistani and Saudi air force officials have taken place. Yet, with Saudi attacks on UAE-bound shipments in Yemen and accusations against Abu Dhabi of threatening Riyadh’s national security, Pakistan faces immense pressure to pick a side.

For Islamabad, the challenge is akin to “holding milk and fish at the same time”—maintaining strong relations with both Gulf powers without alienating either.