In a move reflecting rising diplomatic tensions, Algerian authorities announced on Saturday the initiation of procedures to cancel the air services agreement with the United Arab Emirates, which had been in force since 2014.

Legal and Diplomatic Measures

According to the Algerian Press Agency, the government has activated the termination process of the agreement signed in Abu Dhabi on May 13, 2013, invoking Article 22, which requires notifying the contracting party through official diplomatic channels.

Algeria is also set to inform the Secretary-General of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in order to complete the relevant international procedures.

Background to the Decision

While the official statement avoided detailing direct reasons, Algerian media linked the decision to what was described as “hostile actions” attributed to the UAE, including:

• Alleged support for the “MAK” movement advocating the secession of the Kabylie region, classified by Algeria as a terrorist organization,

• Claims of financing and facilitating activities hostile to Algeria’s national unity,

• Accusations of efforts aimed at destabilizing the country’s internal security.

Regional Context

Observers note that Algeria’s step mirrors similar measures previously taken by Yemen and Somalia, both of which canceled agreements with Abu Dhabi over allegations of interference and support for separatist factions.

Analysts believe that scrapping the aviation agreement could pave the way for a broader reassessment of bilateral relations if disputes over sovereignty and security concerns persist.