Report Claims Saudi Arabia Delays Money Transfers to UAE Amid Rising Tensions

Saudi Arabia has reportedly been blocking or delaying financial transfers from domestic banks to accounts in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since May, according to a report by the International media. Citing sources familiar with the matter, the report said payments belonging to both businesses and individuals have been returned or held without explanation, fueling concerns over growing tensions between the two Gulf neighbors.

The report said several Dubai-based companies have experienced disruptions in receiving payments from Saudi clients. A healthcare firm in Dubai told the newspaper that three separate payments from a long-standing customer in Saudi Arabia had been blocked since mid-May. An executive at the company said banks had indicated there was a directive from the Saudi central bank but provided no further details, delaying the delivery of goods to customers.

Saudi Arabia’s central bank rejected the claims, stating that it has not imposed “direct restrictions on specific countries.” The reported payment delays come amid heightened tensions between Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, although Saudi authorities have denied implementing any country-specific measures affecting cross-border financial transfers.