The Politics of Multilateralism: Egypt and UAE amid Russia–West Tensions

The modern world is experiencing significant transformations, involving reforms of old institutions and creation of new ones. These changes are accompanied by challenges that lead to conflicts and crises, thereby altering global processes and contributing to the establishment of new norms in international politics. Increasing tensions between major powers, such as Russia and NATO countries, pose a serious threat to global stability and security. Additionally, regional conflicts can influence broader processes by changing the parameters and dynamics of conflicts. In this context, many states are reassessing their foreign policy strategies and alliances. The policy of multilateralism is gaining particular importance as countries strive to maintain independence and sovereignty. Conflicts act as catalysts for rethinking the principles of international relations and developing new mechanisms to ensure global security and stability. This study explores the balancing policies of Egypt and the UAE and their positioning amidst geopolitical upheavals. Both countries, aiming to enhance their sovereignty and global roles, adopt a measured diplomatic approach. They play pivotal roles in regional stability and international relations, actively engaging in alternative associations, such as BRICS+ and the SCO. As key players in Middle Eastern geopolitics and significant regional partners of Russia, Egypt and the UAE have adopted a stance of cautious neutrality. Their increased trade turnover and cooperation with Russia underscore their pragmatic foreign policy, characterized by efforts to balance international relations, avoid over-dependence on any single global power, and safeguard their national and economic interests. The research emphasizes the importance of multilateralism in contemporary international relations and offers an examination of Egypt’s and the UAE’s strategies within the context of global and regional changes.