The ministry described these allegations as false, misleading, and unsupported by evidence, warning that they distort facts and damage the reputation of the UAE Armed Forces.

It reaffirmed that UAE forces officially completed their withdrawal from Yemen on January 2, 2026, including the removal of all equipment, weapons, and devices, following standard military procedures. The ministry emphasized that no UAE military, logistical, or technical presence remains in Yemen.

Regarding claims of "secret prisons” at Al-Rayyan Airport, the ministry stated that the facilities in question are standard military housing, operations rooms, and fortified shelters, some underground—a common feature in military airports worldwide.

Analysts note that these allegations, coming after the UAE’s formal withdrawal, may reflect broader political tensions within Yemen, where local authorities and rival factions often seek to leverage accusations against external actors for domestic or regional influence. Some experts suggest that framing the UAE as retaining a covert presence could be aimed at shaping public opinion or pressuring international stakeholders.

The UAE Ministry of Defense characterized the claims as part of a systematic campaign to undermine the country’s decade-long support for Yemen’s security and stability. Observers say the dispute highlights the continuing challenges in verifying information in conflict zones and the role of political narratives in shaping international perceptions.