ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani during a visit to Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The discussion centered on the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, emphasizing the Kurdistan Region specifically. Both leaders explored ways to enhance collaboration and promote development and prosperity for their populations. Attending the talks was UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani revisited the longstanding ties connecting the UAE with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. According to official reports, their conversation focused on expanding cooperation across various sectors. They also addressed mutual interests and regional issues. The meeting occurred at a time when Middle Eastern governments continue prioritizing security and stability amid rising regional tensions.
Both parties highlighted the importance of maintaining security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East, asserting that such efforts should benefit the entire region’s populace. The Kurdistan Regional Government reported that both sides condemned recent attacks on the UAE. The leaders reaffirmed the necessity of safeguarding peace and security while discussing ongoing regional developments.
UAE and Kurdistan Region explore enhanced cooperation
Abu Dhabi hosted a gathering that included several senior UAE officials 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 also participated. Other high-ranking officials from UAE leadership and government bodies took part, indicating the meeting’s significance at a high level.
This gathering marked another instance of direct dialogue between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region’s prime minister in 2026. Sheikh Mohamed previously hosted Barzani in Abu Dhabi on February 3 during an earlier working visit. At that time, Barzani was in the UAE to attend the World Governments Summit in Dubai. That encounter also addressed relations between the UAE and Iraq, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, and regional and global matters of mutual interest.
Leaders reaffirm commitment to regional stability
In the February discussions, both leaders explored avenues of cooperation that could foster growth and prosperity in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. They also exchanged views on topics scheduled for the upcoming World Governments Summit and discussed recent regional and international developments. The September meeting continued this formal dialogue between the UAE government and the Kurdistan Regional Government, maintaining focus on bilateral cooperation and regional peace.
The recent dialogue reinforced the existing official ties between the UAE and Iraq, especially their engagement with the Kurdistan Region. While emphasizing practical collaboration and the regional security landscape, the leaders did not unveil any new agreements during this session. Their public remarks highlighted a shared desire for stronger relations, cross-sector cooperation, and ongoing efforts to support regional stability. The discussions concluded with senior representatives from both sides actively participating in the Abu Dhabi negotiations.