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 meeting concentrated on the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with particular focus on the Kurdistan Region. The leaders explored ways to enhance collaboration and foster development and prosperity for their populations. UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, also participated in the discussions.
Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani examined the long-standing ties between the UAE and Iraq, especially the Kurdistan Region. Their talks included potential sectors for expanded cooperation, according to official reports. Both parties also discussed issues of mutual interest and regional developments. The conversations occurred as Middle Eastern governments continue to prioritize security and stability amidst rising regional tensions.
The leaders highlighted the importance of supporting security, stability, and lasting peace across the Middle East. They emphasized that these efforts should benefit the entire region. The Kurdistan Regional Government stated that both sides condemned recent attacks on the UAE. It added that the leaders agreed on the need to maintain peace and security while addressing regional issues.
UAE and Kurdistan Region aim for deeper cooperation
Abu Dhabi hosted the gathering, which included several senior UAE officials along with Sheikh Mohamed, Barzani, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid. Attendees featured 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 joined. Other top officials from UAE government and leadership participated, reflecting the event’s high-level significance.
This meeting marked another instance of direct talks between Sheikh Mohamed and the Kurdistan Region prime minister in 2026. Sheikh Mohamed previously hosted Barzani in Abu Dhabi on February 3 during his earlier working visit. Barzani was in the UAE for the World Governments Summit in Dubai. That encounter also addressed UAE-Iraq relations, cooperation with the Kurdistan Region, and regional and international issues of mutual concern.
Officials reaffirm commitment to regional stability
In February, the leaders looked at ways cooperation could boost development and prosperity in the UAE, Iraq, and Kurdistan. They discussed topics on the World Governments Summit agenda and exchanged views on regional and global developments. The September meeting continued the official dialogue, focusing again on bilateral relations and regional stability.
The latest talks reaffirmed the existing official connections between the UAE and Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. Both sides prioritized practical cooperation and regional security. No new agreements were announced during the meeting. Their public statements highlighted the desire for stronger ties, sector cooperation, and ongoing regional peace efforts. Senior representatives from both sides participated in the discussions in Abu Dhabi.