This SWP commentary examines the United Arab Emirates’ growing role in African conflicts, arguing that its support for armed actors in Sudan, Libya, Ethiopia and Somalia has contributed to conflict escalation, humanitarian crises and regional instability. Particular attention is given to Sudan, where the UAE is described as a key backer of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), including through military, logistical and financial support that has affected the course of the war.

The analysis situates Emirati intervention within wider economic, geopolitical and ideological interests, including influence over trade routes, access to strategic resources, rivalry with regional powers and opposition to Islamist movements. It also argues that the UAE’s role has undermined international conflict-resolution efforts and calls for stronger European pressure, including clearer public criticism, sanctions, arms export reviews and tighter scrutiny of financial flows linked to conflict economies.

Read the full commentary here.