ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani during a meeting in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The discussion primarily centered on the diplomatic ties between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, emphasizing the Kurdistan Region. The leaders explored strategies to enhance bilateral collaboration and promote development and prosperity for their populations. Also present at the meeting was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.
The officials reflected on the longstanding relationship between the UAE and Iraq, with particular focus on the Kurdistan Region. According to official reports, their dialogue covered potential avenues to broaden cooperation across multiple sectors. Both parties also addressed issues of mutual concern and regional developments. The discussions took place amid ongoing efforts by Middle Eastern governments to prioritize security and stability amidst rising regional tensions.
Emphasizing the significance of regional peace, the delegates highlighted the importance of supporting security and stability throughout the Middle East. They expressed that such endeavors should benefit the entire region’s populace. The Kurdistan Regional Government stated that both sides condemned recent attacks on the UAE. The official account noted that the leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace and security while reviewing regional developments.
UAE and Kurdistan Region explore avenues for enhanced cooperation
Abu Dhabi hosted a gathering that included several senior UAE officials, alongside Sheikh Mohamed, Barzani, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Among the participants was Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan also attended. Other prominent figures from the UAE government and leadership took part, reflecting the high-level scope of the discussions.
This encounter marked another instance of direct engagement between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region’s prime minister in 2026. Previously, on February 3, the UAE president hosted Barzani in Abu Dhabi during an official visit. Barzani was in the UAE to participate in the World Governments Summit in Dubai. Their previous meeting also addressed the relationship between the UAE and Iraq, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, as well as regional and global issues of shared interest.
Regional stability remains a central focus for leaders
During the February discussions, both leaders considered ways to foster development and prosperity within the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region through enhanced cooperation. They also reviewed agenda items from the World Governments Summit and exchanged perspectives on regional and international affairs. The September meeting built on this ongoing official dialogue, emphasizing bilateral collaboration and regional stability as key priorities.
This latest engagement reaffirmed the strong official ties between the UAE and Iraq, including active cooperation with the Kurdistan Region. While no new agreements were announced, both sides concentrated on practical collaboration and the regional security landscape. Their public statements underscored the importance of deepening relations, expanding sector cooperation, and maintaining regional peace. The discussions concluded with senior representatives from both sides taking part in the Abu Dhabi meetings.