Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Ministry of Defense categorically denied the claims made at a press conference held by the Governor of Hadramawt, Salem al-Hanbashi, regarding the discovery of quantities of weapons
and explosives allegedly linked to the UAE at al-Rayyan Airport in the Yemeni city of Mukalla.
The Ministry affirmed that these claims and allegations are baseless and misleading.
It said they lack any evidence or factual basis. It described them as an unacceptable attempt to distort the facts and mislead public opinion.
Allegations and defamation
Furthermore, it stated these claims also deliberately tarnish the reputation of the UAE Armed Forces.
This, in turn, undermines their well-known record and military commitments.
The Ministry of Defense clarified that UAE forces officially and publicly completed their full withdrawal from Yemen on December 3, 2015.
It noted that the withdrawal process included the transfer of all equipment,
weapons, and devices in accordance with established military procedures.
Thus, it categorically denied any UAE military, logistical, or technical presence on Yemeni soil.
Regarding the alleged existence of so-called “secret prisons” within Al-Rayyan Airport, the Ministry of Defense stressed
that these claims are baseless fabrications aimed at creating inaccurate and unprofessional narratives.
Military barracks and fortified shelters
The Ministry affirmed that the facilities in question are merely military barracks, operations rooms, and fortified shelters. Some of these are located underground.
This is standard practice in airports and military installations worldwide.
It carries no implications outside the normal military context.
The Ministry of Defense emphasized that dragging the UAE’s name into such allegations raises questions about the true motives and the parties behind their dissemination.
It considers this part of a systematic campaign aimed at tarnishing the image of the UAE and the sacrifices of its armed forces.
Moreover, it sees this as targeting its role in supporting Yemen and contributing to its security and stability for over a decade.
