Qatar–Saudi Arabia relations

Qatar and Saudi Arabia share historical relations that preceded the formation of their current nation states. Prior to 1995, Qatar followed Saudi Arabia's political clout and both countries were highly aligned politically. In 1995, after Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani became Emir of Qatar, he sought to establish Qatar's own influence in regional affairs and on the world's stage. In 1996, Qatar launched Al Jazeera to enhance the country's soft power. Al Jazeera routinely criticized Saudi Arabia, which often led to worsening of diplomatic ties between the two countries. Al Jazeera also provided a platform for Islamist groups, some of which were considered a threat to Saudi Arabia. The strained relations and divergence in geopolitics and regional influence led to the Qatar–Saudi Arabia diplomatic conflict.

Qatar participated in the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen, sending approximately 1,000 soldiers. On 5 June 2017, Saudi Arabia along with Bahrain, Egypt and the United Arab Emirates severed all ties with Qatar. The four countries accused Qatar of supporting terrorist groups and destabilizing the region, an accusation denied by Qatar. As part of this campaign, the Saudi-led quartet closed off their airspaces, territorial waters and land borders to Qatar. Saudi Arabia also suspended Qatar's involvement in the Saudi led intervention in Yemen.

On 4 January 2021, Qatar and Saudi Arabia agreed to reopen airspace, land, and maritime borders. On 16 January, the Saudi announced it would reopen its embassy in Qatar. On 9 January 2021, Saudi Customs resumed operations with Qatar at the Salwa border crossing, and on 14 February 2021, the trade of goods between Qatar and Saudi Arabia resumed through the Abu Samra border crossing.