Brief Published (Dubai time, UTC+4) · event date: 2026-10-21
French President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Riyadh on a “solidarity” visit, the first by a Western leader to Saudi Arabia since the Houthis from Yemen, backed by Iran, intensified their attacks in early October.
This visit takes place amid Macron’s tour of Gulf countries aimed at securing oil and gas supplies, a critical issue given regional tensions and the deteriorating security situation.
Macron’s presence in Riyadh underscores Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance in the region and France’s commitment to supporting its allies while ensuring global energy stability.