UAE Strengthens Strategic Partnerships with Sahel Countries in Response to Destabilizing Algerian Interventions

ALDAR / Analysis

Abu Dhabi has launched a high-level diplomatic tour covering three pivotal countries in the Sahel region—Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This initiative is being led by Minister of State Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, in a move that reinforces the UAE’s responsible and constructive presence in a region marked by intense geopolitical tensions, particularly due to the destabilizing interventions of the Algerian military regime.

The Emirati minister’s visit comes at a critical time, as Algeria’s military leadership—suffering from growing international isolation—continues to export its internal crises abroad through failed attempts to expand its influence at the expense of regional stability. Algeria has notably supported separatist movements and fueled political chaos in the Sahel, disregarding the realities of history, geography, and the principles of good neighborliness.

In contrast, the UAE is pursuing a balanced and respectful approach that honors national sovereignty and aims to offer practical solutions to the region’s crises. This includes tangible development projects and increased cooperation in areas such as security, energy, infrastructure, education, and counterterrorism. Abu Dhabi’s growing presence in the Sahel has been warmly welcomed by the governments and peoples of these nations, who are seeking to break free from the failed regional tutelage that Algeria attempts to impose through financial and military means.

While Algeria becomes increasingly entangled in futile efforts to extend its influence by supporting coups and military alliances that threaten stability, the UAE is offering a civilized and forward-thinking alternative—one focused on development and integration rather than destruction and division. Once again, the UAE proves to be a reliable partner for Africa—an active stakeholder contributing to genuine peace and sustainable development, far from the hollow slogans long propagated by the Algerian regime without yielding any tangible positive outcomes.

The UAE’s proactive engagement is not merely a reaction to Algeria’s reckless regional conduct; it also serves as a clear message that the era of empty dominance is over. Sahel countries have every right to choose their partners freely, without coercion or the political blackmail practiced by a regime that lacks popular legitimacy and is consumed by imaginary conflicts stemming from its deepening internal crisis.

With this responsible initiative, the UAE is helping usher the Sahel into a new era of international cooperation—one based on mutual respect and shared interests—in defiance of all efforts aimed at sabotage and disruption, which no longer have a place in modern Africa.