Saudi Arabia and Yemen have agreed to a major prisoner exchange following talks hosted by Oman, marking one of the most significant confidence-building measures between the sides in recent years.

The agreement, described by officials as substantial in scope, emerged after intensive discussions in Muscat aimed at reducing tensions and addressing humanitarian priorities linked to the prolonged conflict.

According to officials familiar with the talks, the swap will involve the release of a large number of detainees held by both sides, with technical arrangements to be coordinated through established channels.

The agreement follows sustained Omani mediation, which has increasingly positioned Muscat as a trusted facilitator in regional diplomacy, particularly on Yemen-related issues.

Saudi Arabia’s role in advancing the arrangement was framed by regional observers as part of a broader effort to stabilise the situation in Yemen and support pathways toward a durable ceasefire.

Riyadh has consistently emphasised political solutions, humanitarian access and de-escalation as central pillars of its Yemen policy, and the prisoner deal aligns with those stated objectives.

Yemeni representatives involved in the process characterised the agreement as a meaningful step that could help rebuild trust and reduce the human cost of the conflict.

While the exchange does not resolve underlying political disputes, it is seen as a practical measure that may create momentum for further negotiations on security and governance issues.

Implementation timelines and final numbers are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks as logistical and verification procedures are completed.

Regional diplomats said the agreement underscores the value of sustained dialogue and mediation, and reflects cautious optimism that incremental steps can contribute to broader stability in Yemen and the Gulf region.