The President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is set to undertake his first official visit to Pakistan on December 26, marking a significant moment in the long-standing relationship between the two brotherly nations.
The visit is being made at the invitation of Shehbaz Sharif, according to a statement issued by the Foreign Office of Pakistan on Wednesday.
High-Level Talks on Bilateral and Regional Issues
During his visit, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, including senior ministers and top government officials. He is scheduled to hold formal talks with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, where both leaders will review the entire spectrum of Pakistan–UAE relations.
Discussions are expected to cover:
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Trade and investment cooperation
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Energy and development partnerships
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Regional and international matters of mutual interest
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Strengthening economic and strategic collaboration
The Foreign Office said the visit would help further deepen bilateral engagement and reinforce coordination on regional stability.
Strengthening Pakistan–UAE Relations
Officials described the visit as a reflection of the depth of Pakistan–UAE ties and a shared commitment to expanding cooperation across key sectors. Pakistan and the UAE have historically enjoyed close relations based on mutual trust, people-to-people links, and strong economic collaboration.
The Foreign Office noted that the visit would provide an important opportunity to advance joint initiatives, particularly in areas such as:
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Investment and infrastructure development
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Energy cooperation
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Economic growth and financial support
Clarification on “First Official Visit”
While this is being described as Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s first official visit as UAE President, it is worth noting that he also visited Pakistan earlier this year in January, when he was received by the prime minister in Rahim Yar Khan. That visit, however, was not categorised as a formal state visit.
Holiday Announcement in Islamabad — With Clarification
Ahead of the UAE president’s arrival, the Islamabad district administration announced a holiday in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) on December 26.
However, the Cabinet Division later issued a clarification stating that:
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Federal government offices will remain open
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The Federal Secretariat will function as usual
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Federal employees will not be granted a holiday
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Only local administrative arrangements within ICT would be affected
Essential services and federal institutions will continue operations without interruption.
Why This Visit Matters
The visit comes at a time when Pakistan is actively seeking to strengthen international partnerships, attract foreign investment, and enhance regional cooperation. Analysts believe the high-profile engagement could lead to new economic initiatives and strategic understandings between Islamabad and Abu Dhabi.
As both countries look to expand collaboration in trade, energy, and development, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s visit is being viewed as a diplomatic milestone with long-term implications.
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