Algeria vs. UAE: Rising Rivalry Over Influence in Africa
Tensions rise as both nations compete for influence through diplomacy and investments.
Watan-In a new escalation reflecting the growing rivalry between Algeria and the UAE over regional influence, the London-based newspaper Al-Arab, funded by Abu Dhabi, launched a sharp attack on Algerian diplomacy, accusing it of failing to manage African mediation efforts, particularly in Mali and the Congo. The newspaper claimed that Algeria’s movements on the continent are merely attempts to “gain media presence” without achieving any tangible results on the ground.
The newspaper alleged that Algeria’s mediation between the warring parties in Mali is experiencing a “clear decline,” as Algeria has failed to maintain the 2015 peace agreement signed between the Malian government and armed factions. As for the escalating crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the newspaper downplayed the significance of Algeria’s initiative, describing it as mere “disruption” to established international efforts, calling it “secondary performances that are no longer palatable.”
The Emirati attack on Algeria comes at a time when the latter is preparing to play a key role in strengthening security and stability in Africa, particularly following the escalation of clashes between the M23 armed group and government forces in eastern Congo since the beginning of 2025.
Abu Dhabi sees this move as a threat to its strategic interests, as it seeks to expand its influence in Africa through massive investments and political alliances. This puts it in direct competition with Algeria, which has a long history of supporting African liberation movements and participating in international mediation efforts.
This media attack is not the first of its kind, as Emirati media outlets have consistently criticized Algeria, especially after its positions opposing UAE policies in the region. Observers believe that this escalation reflects tensions between the two countries amid their competition for influence in North Africa and the Sahel, where Algeria is attempting to reassert itself as an active diplomatic player, while the UAE seeks to strengthen its political and economic presence in the region through new alliances.
Amid this hidden struggle, the key question remains: Will Algeria succeed in establishing itself as a primary mediator in Africa despite media attempts to undermine its efforts? Or will the UAE’s growing influence weaken its ability to shape regional affairs? The coming days may hold the answer as Algerian diplomatic efforts continue and tensions escalate across the African continent.
