UAE President Visit Pakistan to Boost Bilateral Ties
UAE President Arrives in Islamabad
UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates landed in Islamabad on Friday for his first official visit to Pakistan since taking office. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir received the Emirati leader at Nur Khan Airbase, where Pakistani military jets escorted his aircraft into national airspace and rendered an aerial salute, according to the UAE’s official news agency, WAM.
An official welcoming ceremony was held at the airbase, featuring the playing of both national anthems, a 21-gun salute, and a guard of honour. Federal ministers including Ishaq Dar, Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, and Attaullah Tarar were present. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif introduced cabinet members to the visiting dignitary during the reception.
UAE President : Delegation and Official Meetings
President Sheikh Mohammed’s visit comes as part of a high-level diplomatic effort to strengthen Pakistan-UAE ties. This is his second visit to Pakistan this year, following an earlier meeting with the prime minister in Rahim Yar Khan in January 2025. The president is accompanied by presidential advisers Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi, and senior ministers.
During the visit, President Nahyan is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss the “entire spectrum of bilateral relations” and exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual interest, with a special focus on cooperation in the minerals sector.
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Pakistan-UAE Bilateral Relations
Pakistan and the UAE share strong diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties. The UAE is one of Pakistan’s major trading partners and a vital source of remittances. The countries have longstanding historical connections, strengthened by a significant Pakistani diaspora in the Emirates.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz welcomed the visit, calling relations between Pakistan and the UAE “timeless and exemplary.” She said it was a matter of pride that the UAE president chose Pakistan for his first official visit after assuming office.
UAE President : Economic and Investment Discussions
Earlier this week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan’s interest in attracting greater UAE investment in key sectors such as energy, minerals, information technology, railways, and aviation during discussions with UAE Ambassador Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi. The president’s visit is expected to reinforce these initiatives and open pathways for new trade agreements and joint ventures.
Protocol and Security Arrangements
The Islamabad district administration declared a local holiday for the capital to accommodate the visit, while essential services including hospitals, law enforcement, municipal operations, and utilities continued to function normally. Islamabad Police announced traffic diversions on the Expressway and Murree Road/Club Road from 11:00am to 3:00pm. Commuters were advised to use alternate routes and allow 20–25 extra minutes for travel.
UAE President : Cultural and Historical Ties
The UAE president’s visit reflects decades of strong Pakistan-UAE cooperation. In April, both nations signed several memoranda of understanding covering cultural exchange, consular affairs coordination, and the establishment of a UAE-Pakistan Joint Business Council linking their chambers of commerce. These agreements aim to facilitate business cooperation, trade growth, and cultural engagement.
Historical Context of Pakistan-UAE Relations
Pakistan and the UAE have maintained friendly relations since the 1970s. The UAE has consistently supported Pakistan economically and politically. Over the decades, trade between the two countries has expanded significantly, and the UAE has emerged as a major source of remittances from the expatriate workforce. High-level visits from leaders of both nations have played a crucial role in strengthening diplomatic and commercial ties. The UAE also supports Pakistan in infrastructure projects, energy development, and strategic investments in various sectors.
UAE President : Significance of the Visit
President Sheikh Mohammed’s visit is important for reinforcing political goodwill and economic collaboration. Discussions on minerals and investment opportunities can contribute to Pakistan’s economic development. Furthermore, such visits foster stronger ties, enhance bilateral trade, and strengthen people-to-people connections.
FAQs
1. Who is visiting Pakistan from the UAE?
President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with a high-level delegation, is visiting Pakistan.
2. What is the purpose of the visit?
The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations, discuss trade and investment, and focus on cooperation in minerals and economic sectors.
3. When did the UAE president arrive in Pakistan?
He arrived on Friday, December 26, 2025.
4. Who received the UAE president in Pakistan?
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir received him at Nur Khan Airbase.
5. What agreements are expected during the visit?
The visit is expected to reinforce previous MoUs and encourage new cooperation in trade, minerals, energy, and cultural exchange.
6. How does the visit affect Pakistan-UAE relations?
It strengthens diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, enhances trade, and promotes investment opportunities.
Official Link
For official statements and updates, visit: Pakistan Foreign Office
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