ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The discussions centered on the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with a specific emphasis on the Kurdistan Region. The leaders explored avenues to enhance collaboration and promote development and prosperity among their populations. Also present were Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, who participated in the dialogue.
Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani examined the enduring ties that connect the UAE with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. Their conversations included potential opportunities to broaden cooperation in various sectors, as reported by official sources. They also addressed issues of mutual relevance and regional developments. This meeting occurred amid ongoing efforts by Middle Eastern governments to prioritize security and stability in the face of rising regional tensions.
The importance of bolstering security, stability, and long-term peace throughout the Middle East was a key focus for both parties. It was emphasized that such efforts should benefit the region’s populations. The Kurdistan Regional Government highlighted that both leaders condemned recent assaults on the UAE. According to its account of the meeting, the leaders underscored the necessity of maintaining peace and stability while discussing regional developments impacting the broader area.
UAE and Kurdistan Region explore enhanced collaboration
Abu Dhabi hosted the gathering, which included several senior officials from the UAE alongside Sheikh Mohamed, Barzani, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Among the attendees 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 was also present. The presence of other high-ranking officials from the UAE leadership and government highlighted the significance of the event.
This meeting represented another instance of direct engagement between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region prime minister in 2026. On February 3, Sheikh Mohamed received Barzani in Abu Dhabi during an earlier working visit, during which Barzani was in the UAE to participate in the World Governments Summit in Dubai. The discussions during that visit also touched on relations between the UAE and Iraq, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, and regional and global issues of mutual interest.
Focus on regional stability reiterated by leaders
In their February dialogue, both leaders examined avenues for cooperation that could foster development and prosperity in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. They also exchanged views on regional and international matters featured on the World Governments Summit agenda. The September meeting continued the official dialogue, emphasizing bilateral cooperation and regional stability, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to these goals.
During the latest encounter, the well-established official ties between the UAE and Iraq, including direct interaction with the Kurdistan Region, were reaffirmed. The discussions concentrated on practical cooperation and regional security issues, though no new agreements were announced. Both sides issued statements highlighting their desire for stronger relations, cross-sector collaboration, and ongoing support for regional peace. The meeting concluded with participation from senior representatives of both parties in the Abu Dhabi talks.