Saudi Arabia and the UAE are seen by Russia as possible venues for a summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, two Russian sources with knowledge of the discussions told Reuters.
Trump has said he will end the war in Ukraine as soon as possible and said he is ready to meet Putin.
Putin congratulated Trump on his election and stated he is ready to meet Trump to discuss Ukraine and energy.
Russian officials have repeatedly denied any direct contacts with the US about preparations for a phone call between Trump and Putin, which would precede an eventual meeting later this year.