Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to visit Pakistan, discuss Gaza and Afghanistan



Islamabad, December 25, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic move, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, will embark on his official visit to Pakistan on December 26, 2025.

This marks his first visit to Pakistan in his capacity as president, underscoring the importance of the relationship between the two nations.

A befitting welcome is expected as folk dancers and fighter jets are to join him in Islamabad. The federal capital has been decorated with national flags of the two countries and portraits of the leaders. A local holiday has been announced in Islamabad.

The visit comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, who is looking to bolster bilateral ties and explore new avenues for collaboration. Sheikh Mohamed will be accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising ministers and senior officials, indicating the UAE's commitment to enhancing its diplomatic and economic relations with Pakistan.

A Meeting of Leaders

During this pivotal visit, Sheikh Mohamed will hold discussions with Prime Minister Sharif, where the two leaders are expected to review the entire spectrum of bilateral relations. Their talks will encompass a variety of topics, including trade, investment, energy, and development, as well as regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Experts are attaching huge importance to the visit keeping in mind the discussion around multinational security force in Gaza and Pakistan’s tensions with Afghanistan.

Analysts view Sheikh Mohamed's visit as timely, given the evolving geopolitical landscape in the region. Both nations face challenges that require collaborative approaches, particularly in addressing issues related to security and stability in South Asia and the Gulf region. The UAE's role as a mediator in regional conflicts could further align with Pakistan's interests in promoting peace and stability.

This meeting represents not just a continuation of long-standing ties but also a strategic effort to deepen cooperation in areas that are crucial for both countries. The UAE has been a key partner for Pakistan, particularly in terms of investment and economic support, and this visit is seen as an opportunity to build on those foundations.

Bilateral Relationship

The relationship between Pakistan and the UAE has historically been characterized by strong cultural and economic links. The UAE is home to a significant Pakistani diaspora, contributing to the robust remittance flow that supports Pakistan's economy. 

In recent years, both countries have sought to expand their cooperation beyond traditional areas, focusing on sectors such as renewable energy, technology, and infrastructure development. Recent issue of visas for Pakistanis may come up for discussion too.

Future Prospects

As the UAE continues to diversify its economy away from oil dependence, Pakistan presents a growing market for investment and trade. Initiatives such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) have attracted interest from UAE investors, who are keen to tap into the infrastructure and energy sectors.

The visit of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan is more than a mere diplomatic engagement; it is a strategic move to reinforce the brotherly ties that have historically bound the two nations. As both countries look to the future, the outcomes of this visit could significantly shape the trajectory of their bilateral relations, fostering a partnership that adapts to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

The visit is poised to mark a new chapter in UAE-Pakistan relations, emphasizing collaboration and mutual growth. The discussions and agreements reached during this visit will likely have lasting implications for both nations as they navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape.

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