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International Relations

Saudi Arabia–Yemen relations

Saudi Arabia and Yemen share a long border and deep historical ties, with the relationship dominated since 2015 by the conflict in Yemen.

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Overview

Saudi Arabia and Yemen share a border of roughly 1,800 kilometres and deep historical, tribal and cultural ties. Yemeni labour has long been important to the Saudi economy.

Historical ties

Relations between the Arabian Peninsula's northern and southern regions long predate the modern states. The Treaty of Taif of 1934 defined the border, which was reaffirmed by later agreements.

The conflict since 2015

In 2015 a Saudi-led coalition intervened in Yemen in support of the internationally recognised government after the Houthi takeover of Sanaa. The conflict has caused a severe humanitarian crisis.

Humanitarian role

Saudi Arabia has been a major donor of humanitarian aid to Yemen, funding food, health and relief programmes through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre.

Peace efforts

Saudi Arabia has supported United Nations mediation and has engaged in talks aimed at a political settlement.

References

  1. Yemen \u2014 United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (accessed 5 October 2026)
  2. Saudi Arabia and Yemen \u2014 Encyclopaedia Britannica (accessed 5 October 2026)

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