Pakistan on Thursday welcomed the President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on a one-day official visit, marking a significant moment in the strengthening of long-standing Pak-UAE relations. The visit underscores the deep-rooted brotherly ties between the two countries and signals renewed momentum in diplomatic, economic, and strategic cooperation.
Sheikh Mohammed was received at Nur Khan Airbase by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and senior cabinet members including Ahsan Iqbal, Mohsin Naqvi, Khawaja Asif, Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Abdul Aleem Khan. Senior civil and military officials were also present, reflecting the importance Islamabad attaches to the visit.
A formal welcome ceremony followed, featuring national anthems of Pakistan and the UAE, a 21-gun salute, and a guard of honour presented by a military contingent. Traditional and military bands performed ceremonial displays, while children waving Pakistani and Emirati flags lined the route, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formally introduced members of his cabinet to the visiting leader.
This is Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s first visit to Pakistan since assuming office as UAE president, and it comes at the invitation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The accompanying delegation includes senior advisers, ministers, and UAE Ambassador to Pakistan Salem Mohammed Al Zaabi, highlighting the high-level nature of the engagement.
In a gesture of respect, Islamabad declared a public holiday for the day. Major roads and intersections across the capital were decorated with Pak-UAE flags, portraits of leaders, and special lighting arrangements. Upon entering Pakistani airspace, the UAE president’s aircraft was escorted by Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder jets, which presented a ceremonial aerial salute.
During the visit, Sheikh Mohammed is scheduled to hold meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the President of Pakistan. Delegation-level talks will focus on a comprehensive review of bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on investment, trade, energy cooperation, and long-term economic collaboration.
Both sides are expected to explore new investment opportunities and discuss ways to further strengthen the strategic partnership, especially in the Gulf region. Regional stability and global issues of mutual concern will also be part of the discussions.
Officials have described the visit as a new chapter in Pak-UAE relations, reflecting mutual trust and shared aspirations. The presence of the UAE’s top leadership in Islamabad is expected to yield positive outcomes and open fresh avenues for cooperation across multiple sectors.
