United Arab Emirates President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan arrived in Pakistan today (December 26) to bolster bilateral ties with Pakistan.
The Foreign Office confirmed the visit through spokesperson Tahir Andrabi. Importantly, this is Sheikh Mohamed’s first official visit to Pakistan as UAE president. Previously, he visited Pakistan in other official capacities before assuming the presidency. Therefore, officials view the visit as highly symbolic for bilateral engagement.
High-Level Talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Planned
During the visit, Sheikh Mohamed is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad the chief of armed forces to review the full scope of bilateral relations between the two countries. They will also exchange views on regional and international issues of shared interest.
Moreover, the talks will address cooperation across political, economic, and security domains. Officials expect discussions to focus on strengthening strategic coordination.
Longstanding Brotherly Ties Between Pakistan and UAE
Pakistan and the UAE share deep-rooted brotherly relations spanning several decades. These ties reflect strong cooperation in political, economic, and cultural fields.
Additionally, millions of Pakistanis live and work in the UAE. Their contributions continue to strengthen people-to-people connections. As a result, bilateral relations enjoy broad public support in both countries.
Opportunities to Expand Cooperation in Key Sectors
According to the Foreign Office, the visit offers an opportunity to enhance existing cooperation.
Both sides aim to expand engagement in trade and investment sectors.
Furthermore, leaders will discuss collaboration in energy and development initiatives.
Regional stability will also remain an important subject during the meetings.
Officials believe these discussions can produce long-term economic benefits.
The Foreign Office stated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif invited the UAE president.
This invitation highlights mutual trust between the leaderships of both countries.
Consequently, the visit reflects a shared commitment to deepening strategic ties.
Diplomatic sources expect positive outcomes from the high-level engagement.
They also anticipate future reciprocal visits and sustained dialogue.
Islamabad Declares Local Holiday Ahead of Visit
Meanwhile, authorities have announced a local holiday in Islamabad on Friday. The decision relates to the arrival of the UAE president in the capital.
Additional District Magistrate Sahibzada Muhammad Yousaf issued the official notification. However, the notification clarified that essential service offices will remain operational. Security arrangements and administrative measures have already been finalized.
Significance of the Visit for Regional Diplomacy
Analysts believe the visit underscores Pakistan’s importance in regional diplomacy. Similarly, it highlights the UAE’s active role in South Asian engagement. Both countries seek stability, economic growth, and regional cooperation. Therefore, the visit may strengthen alignment on shared diplomatic objectives.
Observers expect the visit to reinforce long-term bilateral partnerships.
