Businesses report blocked payments from Saudi Arabia to the UAE, raising fears of worsening ties

Businesses report blocked payments from Saudi Arabia to the UAE, raising fears of worsening ties Submitted by Elis Gjevori on Wed, 07/08/2026 - 10:50 Companies say Saudi transfers to UAE accounts have slowed as tensions between the Gulf countries resume following the Israeli-US war on Iran Cars drive along the King Fahad road in the Saudi capital Riyadh on 3 March (Fayez Nureldine/AFP) Off Saudi Arabia has reportedly delayed or blocked money transfers to accounts in the United Arab Emirates . The reports have raised fears that a widening political rift between the Gulf neighbours is now hitting trade. Several sources told the Financial Times that payments from Saudi banks to UAE-based accounts belonging to companies and individuals in Dubai had been returned or held up since May, often without explanation.