Saudi-UAE diplomatic rift triggers sudden Saudi visa denials for UAE-based staff

From 30-31 January, Saudi consulates have been denying or stalling business-visa applications submitted from the UAE, a move linked to recent diplomatic tensions. The sudden clamp-down is disrupting cross-border projects and forcing UAE firms to seek work-arounds such as tourist visas or routing via third countries. The episode underscores geopolitical risk in Gulf mobility and may accelerate decisions on relocating staff to Riyadh.