A recent phone call from former U.S. President Donald Trump to the United Arab Emirates reportedly ignited a feud between Saudi Arabia and the Emirates, with the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman requesting sanctions against the UAE, according to four individuals familiar with the conversation.
The request, relayed by Trump during a visit to the White House in February 2026, centered on Saudi concerns regarding the UAE’s economic policies and regional influence. The individuals, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that Trump appeared surprised by the request, but communicated it to Emirati officials.
This development arrives as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MbS, navigates a shifting international landscape. Just years prior, following the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, he faced widespread condemnation and was labeled a “pariah” by President Joe Biden. Although, Saudi Arabia has recently hosted diplomatic talks involving representatives from the United States, Russia and Ukraine, signaling a potential shift in his international standing.
The BBC reported in March 2025 that this transition from isolation to peacemaker has been a notable development, particularly given the earlier accusations against him. The hosting of peace talks, the report noted, was a surprising turn for a leader once ostracized by many in the international community.
Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia is undergoing a significant internal transformation, as highlighted by The Economist in May 2025. This transformation includes ambitious economic reforms and a concerted effort to diversify the nation’s economy, moving away from its reliance on oil. These changes are being spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
The request for sanctions against the UAE, if confirmed, represents a potential disruption to the delicate balance of power in the Gulf region. The relationship between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, while often cooperative, has likewise been marked by periods of tension and competition. The Trump administration’s involvement, and the Crown Prince’s direct appeal for punitive measures, adds a new layer of complexity to this dynamic.
As of today, the Biden administration has not publicly responded to the reported request. The Emirati government has also remained silent on the matter. A scheduled meeting between Saudi and Emirati officials, aimed at de-escalating tensions, is planned for later this month, but the outcome remains uncertain.
