ABU DHABI / RankWire.AI / – UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani during a meeting in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. The discussions centered on the relationship between the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, with an emphasis on the Kurdistan Region. Leaders explored avenues for enhancing collaboration and fostering development and prosperity for their populations. Present at the meeting was Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai.
During the talks, Sheikh Mohamed and Barzani revisited the long-standing ties between the UAE and Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. They explored various opportunities to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors, according to official reports. The leaders also touched upon regional developments and issues of shared interest. The discussions occurred against a backdrop of ongoing regional tensions, with the Middle East governments prioritizing security and stability.
Both parties emphasized the significance of promoting security, stability, and enduring peace throughout the Middle East. They agreed that these efforts should benefit the people across the region. The Kurdistan Regional Government noted that both sides condemned recent attacks on the UAE. The official account of the meeting indicated that the leaders underlined the importance of maintaining peace and security amid ongoing regional developments.
UAE and Kurdistan Region Explore Enhanced Cooperation
Abu Dhabi hosted a gathering of 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. The meeting saw participation from other senior officials from UAE leadership and government, reflecting its high-level significance.
This encounter represented another chapter of direct dialogue between Sheikh Mohamed and Kurdistan Region’s prime minister in 2026. On February 3, Sheikh Mohamed welcomed Barzani in Abu Dhabi during an earlier working visit. At that time, Barzani was in the UAE to take part in the World Governments Summit in Dubai. The discussion addressed not only UAE-Iraq relations and cooperation with the Kurdistan Region but also regional and global issues of mutual concern.
Focus on Regional Stability Continues with Renewed Dialogue
In their February engagement, the leaders examined collaborative efforts that could bolster development and prosperity in the UAE, Iraq, and the Kurdistan Region. The talks also covered topics listed on the World Governments Summit agenda and included exchanges on regional and international developments. The September meeting built upon this official dialogue, reiterating the importance of bilateral cooperation and regional stability.
The recent gathering reinforced the established diplomatic ties between the UAE and Iraq, including active engagement with the Kurdistan Region. While there were no new agreements announced, both sides emphasized practical cooperation and the broader security environment. Public statements highlighted a commitment to strengthening relations, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and supporting regional peace. Senior representatives from both sides participated in the Abu Dhabi discussions, concluding the meeting on a positive note.